tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86935916762015008792024-03-16T17:20:12.589-06:00Montana BiblioTechiesTechnology you can use for the Montana library community.Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.comBlogger162125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-24687917230594698732024-03-16T17:19:00.001-06:002024-03-16T17:19:37.887-06:00Libraries Using Technology to Shift the Narrative<p> As I near the end of my career at Montana State Library, it's natural I suppose to look back on what we accomplished and where we might have missed out.</p><p>I started 25 years ago just as the Gates grant was being awarded to bring MT public libraries onto the Internet. I was hired as a technology consultant to help libraries integrate technology into their services. In the early days, there was a lot of network and printer troubleshooting, loading Laser Cat CD ROMs onto computers and guiding libraries through the E-Rate process.</p><p>Gradually, that changed. Several years ago my position was reclassified as a librarian and my priorities were shifted to areas like boards and policies. But some librarians remembered me as the last remaining tech consultant and continued to call on me for tech questions . Until recently, I was still working with E-Rate, We also had others on staff doing tech trainings. I continued to be involved in national initiatives such as broadband and digital equity, but the fact that no one was assigned to focus on technology and envision goals for the state told me it wasn't a priority. There was an attempt at a Tech Core Services Committee, but technology is a fast moving area and keeping up with it is a full time job. Working with other states, I could see that MT was different in this regard as many other state libraries do have specialists in this area.<br /></p><p>It's not just the state library, our state is also one of the few without a standalone state broadband office. Instead, ours is run out of the Department of Administration with consultants doing much of the work. What difference does that make? Other states actively involved stakeholders in the planning process for BEAD (Broadband Equity Access and Deployment) and DEA (Digital Equity Act) grants with stakeholders at the table instead of just at focus groups and interviews.</p><p>Much of the emphasis at the state library has shifted to building relationships with local funders and training boards to be better advocates for their libraries both with funders and community members. And that's all very important. But what seems to be missing is, are we advocating and building relationships from a position of strength or weakness?</p><p>As libraries have become targets in the culture wars, many of our traditional practices have come under increased scrutiny. What is in our collections? What messages are we conveying through programs especially those involving young people such as summer reading and story time? </p><p>David Lankes recently offered the observation that engaging in the controversy around collections is a no win situation. Instead we want to shift the narrative to a focus on AI and its impact on the workforce. Libraries can be leaders in this area as they provide venues to explore issues surrounding Artificial Intelligence and offer opportunities for their communities to become AI literate.<br /></p>Yet I fear we may be mired in collections controversies for the foreseeable future. The legislative priority for the upcoming session is resource sharing. I'm not going to argue that resource sharing is unimportant. It's a critical issue for library users. But not only is it a 20th century issue, it also leaves open the door for controversies over the collections being shared. It's no doubt going to take a lot of time and monetary resources in lobbying efforts to convince our legislature of its value in our current political climate. <br /><p>Perhaps especially in rural communities, elected officials are no doubt aware of the need for tech skills due to the impact it's having in agriculture. Rural libraries offering programs on drones, robotics and AI aren't going to have to go to their elected officials trying to convince them of the value of their programs. The officials will come to them. I would argue that this can not only shift the narrative but the balance of power. Libraries can offer something local officials know they need to be competitive in the 21st century.</p><p>My time is almost done. State libraries are in a good position to provide leadership in the area of AI. Many have already joined <a href="https://circl.community/index.php/slaait-home/">SLAAIT</a>. I see great potential in a look to the future and helping public libraries shift the narrative and the balance of power. Here's to those who will carry that torch going forward.<br /></p><br /><p><br /></p>Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-11638562737320612382023-03-02T12:16:00.003-07:002023-03-28T15:24:17.722-06:00Your library's web presence<p> These days if your library can't be found on the web, it may not exist to a lot of people. So, it's important to establish and maintain a web presence. Luckily there are a number of ways to do this.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Search <br /></h3><p>The first and easiest way is to claim your library as a business in Google search. You start with a simple Google search. </p><p>You'll probably find something like this</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptQGiI1trDs7cGa64hGEyl4yRM5u46i9hRWTrFrf5i9wfNdtD70_R4oZZgbYVag4339KtlUUtr00WRz9hzaEJYpOaRoIkhY8cD7hs8GrZqwfkHCYBdbFJCCj3EE1uU7CorpXEVZg03pSzdUyCse8aBDs7Sf7kbCd1VNq4wVO5ZMD5Dwky2BCMafQgjw/s632/philib_search.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Phillips County library Google result" border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="412" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptQGiI1trDs7cGa64hGEyl4yRM5u46i9hRWTrFrf5i9wfNdtD70_R4oZZgbYVag4339KtlUUtr00WRz9hzaEJYpOaRoIkhY8cD7hs8GrZqwfkHCYBdbFJCCj3EE1uU7CorpXEVZg03pSzdUyCse8aBDs7Sf7kbCd1VNq4wVO5ZMD5Dwky2BCMafQgjw/w261-h400/philib_search.JPG" width="261" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You'll notice that one of the links provided following the basic information is - Own this business? By clicking on that link, you can set up an account where you can update the information and view reviews and searches. This is probably the first place people will come who are new to your library. So accurate hours and contact information as well as a few photos can be very helpful.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><h3 style="text-align: left;">Social Media</h3></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There are lots of social media sites. You're probably going to have to pick and choose. The most important consideration is which site(s) your library's patrons use most. In particular, which sites are most popular with your target audience. But also, which sites do your staff or volunteers who will be keeping up your social media use and feel most comfortable with. You may want to reach teens who you know are on TikTok or YouTube but you don't have anyone comfortable with video. So, you may want to opt for Instagram instead and focus on still photos. You can work your way toward video. And some of these platforms make it easy to string together still photos, add captions and music and create a video. Facebook is still popular for a lot of libraries due to its wide reach and fairly user friendly creator pages where you can invite multiple people to contribute content at varying levels. The important thing about any social media account is to post content to it regularly. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><h3 style="text-align: left;">Websites</h3><div style="text-align: left;"> There are a number of factors to consider when deciding on a website for your library, e.g., domain name, web hosting and web building software. If you want to spend the money, you can pay a single company to provide all of these services for your library. The prices will vary from a few dollars a month for a simple site with little storage and few features to around $30/month for a business level site with e-commerce options. You probably don't need that, especially when you're just starting out. You can also find a few free options where you can find some fairly simple web building tools and a site that will host your pages. You will have to put up with advertising and you won't be able to use your own domain name on these. There are also some that are free to try. You can opt to pay if you decide you like it. Something I would definitely suggest if you are new to website creation.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h4 style="text-align: left;">Free with ads</h4><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank">Blogger</a> - this is the software MT Bibliotechies uses. It is blogging software and has its limitations as far as library web pages are concerned. But it is easy to set up and use and you can buy a domain name for your library from Google for as little as $12/year. </li><li><a href="https://sites.google.com/" target="_blank">Google sites</a> - Google also offers a free website builder with a limited number of templates. You can use their URL or your own domain name as above. <br /></li><li><a href="https://wordpress.com/" target="_blank">WordPress</a> - WordPress is the web building software behind many websites. It's also available via WordPress.com. There is a free version available with ads. You can also find low cost versions including domain name hosting for as little as $5/month - paid annually. WordPress is a powerful tool but can have a bit of a learning curve.<br /><a href="https://wordpress.com/view/mytownlibrary5.wordpress.com">Anytown library sample website</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://Wix.com">Wix.com</a> - Wix is a popular and easy to use website builder used by several Montana libraries. They do offer a free version that comes with ads. They will constantly try to upsell you, however. It looks like their cheapest paid plan is $16/month and includes domain name hosting.</li><li><a href="http://Weebly.com">Weebly.com</a> - Another free website builder and host. The good thing about these is you can try them out. If you come up with something you like, you can always choose to upgrade and pay later. The downside is the proprietary website building software can make it difficult to move if you should decided to do so down the road. <br /></li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;">Domain Name Registration <br /></h4><div style="text-align: left;">First of all, why do we care about domain names? If most people are just going to put your library's name or the name of your town and library in a search engine to find you, why bother with a domain name at all? If you're going to use it in a lot of places: ads, posters, bookmarks, newspaper articles, it's a bit easier and looks better than the URL you're going to get from a free site. For example, I started playing around with designing a free site on Wix for Drummond and was given this unhelpful URL - https://sreymer7.wixsite.com/my-site-1. Admittedly, a domain name is not necessary and if you're just planning on linking your website to city/county web pages and ASPeN, you can probably choose to forego the extra expense. But if you'd like to have one or would like to get one in case you want to use it in the future, there are a number of places you can go to register a domain name. Just keep in mind that you will also need a web host with many of these. So, separate domain name registration is best when you're just reserving a domain name for future use, or you already have a web host you're going to use that doesn't include domain name registration. It's also good practice to continue to register a domain name that your library might have used in the past, even if you're not currently using it. I can recall an incident where a library failed to renew and their domain ended up being used by a Russian porn site. That's not where you want people to go who are looking for your library<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.hover.com/" target="_blank">Hover</a> - this is the one I use. I started using Tucows years ago for software and continued on with Hover. Just an easy to use service with good customer support. It can be a bit more expensive than some of the others but we're talking about a few dollars a year. They don't offer web hosting or web building services so they won't try to upsell you.</li><li><a href="https://domains.google/" target="_blank">Google Domains</a> - as mentioned in the section on Blogger and Google Sites, Google will register your domain names for you. It's probably most useful and convenient if you're using other Google tools but they do claim to work well with a number of trusted partners.</li><li><a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-domain-registrar/" target="_blank">Forbes Advisor - The Best Domain Registrars of 2023</a> - if you want to shop and compare various registrars.</li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;">Website Hosts </h4><p style="text-align: left;">You'll need a server somewhere to host your website. In years past, it might have been a service that your ISP provided. Perhaps your city or county hosts your website. If so, they may also have templates and/or website creation software they require you to use. They may also include your library as part of their larger domain. So you might have a URL that looks like <library.montanacounty.gov> or <montanacounty.gov/library>. </p><p style="text-align: left;">But in many cases, you're either going to choose to go with a free with ads web host or pay for one. As with the free ones listed above, including their paid versions, many will offer to take care of all of your website needs for you: domain name registration, website hosting and website creator tools. That's great if you find one that you like, at the right price that's easy for you to use. Having it all in one can make it more of a challenge to move, should you decide to do so at some point in the future. Also be forewarned that the great prices and freebies you see offered are often just your initial sign on price. It will go up after your initial sign up period. The great $2.95/month is also only available when you pay for a year or more in advance. That said, a smaller library probably doesn't need a lot of bells and whistles and can probably get a pretty good price. It looks to me like the on-going price for most basic WordPress host sites is about $10/month. </p><p style="text-align: left;">If you look at a lot of web hosts, you'll see that many use WordPress as their site creator software. That makes it easier to move. The templates you use on one host will probably be available on another. There are also a lot of tutorials and help available. But there is a bit of a learning curve. Some web hosts have their own proprietary site creation tools - largely templates - that can make it really easy and fast to set up a nice looking website quickly. It can be frustrating for anyone with more website knowledge who wants to get under the hood and customize. It would also be difficult to just move one of these proprietary sites to a new web host should you decide to do so. You'd probably have to start over again.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Check out the free with ads sites above, particularly if you're new to website creation. You can try one or more out for free and see if it works for you. If so, you can choose to pay to remove ads and/or attach your domain name. Some other web hosts to consider:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.greengeeks.com/">GreenGeeks</a> - okay, I like the name. I set up a website for a nonprofit with them several years ago. No complaints. They use WordPress. They have a promo price of $2.95/month for their cheapest option. It goes up to $10.95/month regular price.<br /></li><li><a href="https://www.dreamhost.com/hosting/" target="_blank">DreamHost</a> - never used them myself but recommended by Forbes for new WordPress users. Promo price of $2.95/month. Regular $6.99/month for starter plan.<br /></li><li><a href="https://www.squarespace.com/">SquareSpace</a> - a popular all in one website host using their own proprietary custom site builder software. They have a wide variety of templates and a logo maker. I've used it with a nonprofit website. I found it pretty easy to use. The person I turned it over to hated it but she hated all things tech - the perfect webmaster. :D You can do a free trial. Pricing starts at $16/month paid annually. You might be able to get a promo discount as they advertise on a lot of podcasts.</li><li><span style="color: red;">ONE TO AVOID</span> - GoDaddy - I managed a website for a nonprofit that was hosted on GD and had a horrible experience. The treasurer for the group was upsold to a managed plan we didn't need without consulting me. This involved a site migration which made our site inaccessible for weeks. Getting it back online took hours on the phone on hold and with customer support. One had to refer to another. We continued to have problems for several months. Their prices may be cheap but you get what you pay for, in this case, very poor customer support.<br /></li></ul><p><a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-web-hosting-services/" target="_blank">Forbes Advisor 10 Best Web Hosting Services (March 2023)</a> - Forbes list gives you other options to check out. </p><p><a href="https://www.techradar.com/web-hosting/best-web-hosting-service-websites" target="_blank">Tech Radar Best web hosting services of 2023</a> - Tech Radar has its own rating. You can check out which web hosts they recommend. But even more helpful is their explanation of various services and terminology at the bottom of the page.<br /></p></div></div></div></div>Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-8555192477938630812022-10-28T11:26:00.003-06:002022-10-28T16:03:59.085-06:00How much broadband does a library need?<p> The FCC set bandwidth goals a while back of 25/3 Mbps upload and download speeds for home use, 100/10 Mbps for libraries serving under 50K, and 1 Gbps and up for libraries serving 50K and over. I'm not sure what year it was. Doing a quick search today in 2022 unearthed a National Broadband Plan from 2010. The executive summary talks about a goal of 100 Mbps service for 100 million households and 1 Gbps for anchor institutions such as schools and libraries.Nevertheless, I believe the more modest numbers are buried in that 12 year old plan.<br /></p><p>Hmm, 12 years in technology. A lot has happened since then. 2010 is when the iPad was first introduced. And a lot has changed in that time as far as Internet usage goes. Netflix was still in its early days as a streaming platform, having only begun that service 2007. At that time it was sending out DVDs and streaming. By 2010 it had turned its focus to streaming content. That is about the time that we saw a major transition away from text based content, e.g., web pages and emails and to visual content, e.g., Instagram, YouTube, TikTok. And people are not only consuming visual content but they're creating it and uploading it to these Internet sites.</p><p>And yet, most Montana libraries are still at 2010 and earlier bandwidth levels.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX4rjHGj8aLnPTTpztXd6b3mSyo0Unma8C0FTjWcEPYEmf-pvHTaBLVpvFpDxMNC1IHQ96FacCC3oxRMGyaOH8kwiUPNrQZh1gA8-eafArHQKn8y68wAO5xlKXYf-kK1TCs4tReALbSimWW8-4kUJtt2SuGQCqbNOQapT1eFBSLikaHBpEpNk2UKoGxw/s1653/mtspeeds.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="993" data-original-width="1653" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX4rjHGj8aLnPTTpztXd6b3mSyo0Unma8C0FTjWcEPYEmf-pvHTaBLVpvFpDxMNC1IHQ96FacCC3oxRMGyaOH8kwiUPNrQZh1gA8-eafArHQKn8y68wAO5xlKXYf-kK1TCs4tReALbSimWW8-4kUJtt2SuGQCqbNOQapT1eFBSLikaHBpEpNk2UKoGxw/w400-h240/mtspeeds.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>This is from the data reported to 2020 Public Library Statistics. From this we can see that 1/3 Montana public libraries don't even meet the FCC standard for home broadband. 2/3 don't meet the standard for libraries. That number is even larger if we include the 17% who didn't report any numbers. </p><p>And yet, I've heard from some library directors whose libraries run test in the 20s that their Internet is fine. No one is complaining. Why fix something that ain't broke?</p><p>Libraries have an important role to play in bridging the digital divide in their communities. We do this in a number of ways, one of which is to provide computer and Internet access to people who have a need to perform a variety of tasks. We're doing them a disservice if all we offer is text based access in an increasingly video world. And that's basically all we're offering when decide that 25/3 is good enough. The fact that no one is complaining is probably more due to the fact that they've learned all they can do at the library is check their email and Facebook rather than they have no need for greater bandwidth. And we've also come up with a stop gap by checking out hotspots. Yes, the library's Internet may be inadequate, take this hotspot and get the bandwidth you need at home. That may be a solution as long as funding is there, but eventually funds are going to have to be found to provide that needed bandwidth at the library as well.</p><p>One of the problems with limited bandwidth is that it doesn't accommodate multiple users, particularly over wifi networks. Let's go over some networking basics starting with a basic network diagram courtesy of the Toward Gigabit Libraries Toolkit:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_cejLlXCkg8fcBwHdbx59l9AC79L3mt8AKFM73g5nLzVGLpMj86_XJAikiiaoFwZASHK9unrlyrdEVjXVLjUAIRiEXDzgoAwL_kqgljEy0lN0DAM0D3mqdLKTHaAD68DFn8VRoXDyK-WYhc2loe64WfNtv2p5WPiUrYjUsRVAh27GNL-GS83vGZrdQ/s662/network.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="481" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_cejLlXCkg8fcBwHdbx59l9AC79L3mt8AKFM73g5nLzVGLpMj86_XJAikiiaoFwZASHK9unrlyrdEVjXVLjUAIRiEXDzgoAwL_kqgljEy0lN0DAM0D3mqdLKTHaAD68DFn8VRoXDyK-WYhc2loe64WfNtv2p5WPiUrYjUsRVAh27GNL-GS83vGZrdQ/w466-h640/network.JPG" width="466" /></a></div><br /><p>There are a lot of articles available on the Internet explaining various aspects of networking. I particularly like <a href="http://lifewire.com" target="_blank">LifeWire</a> and <a href="http://howstuffworks.com">HowStuffWorks</a> for fairly accessible articles that provide a useful amount of detail. I'm going to simplify quite a bit here.</p><p>Just about all Montana public libraries have both wired and wireless networks. They start with a broadband device that connects to the Internet, often a modem for cable or DSL. The maximum speed for any of the devices on the library's network will depend on the amount provided to the library by their Internet Service Provider. If you're getting 25/3 meaning 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload, no device on your network will be able to get more than that regardless of your cabling or wifi equipment. In fact, you will probably get significantly less than that per device.</p><p>The wired network is considered both more reliable and more secure. There are generally a fixed number of devices on this network. This may include staff computers, public access computers, printers. They are connected by ethernet cables and are connected to the modem via a hub or switch and a router, with or without a separate firewall and then to the modem. Overall speed can be influenced by the type of ethernet cable used as well as whether you have a hub or switch. An up to date switch will offer greater speed.<br /></p><p>A wireless network is connected via a wireless router and/or a wireless access point. It can support a virtually limitless number of devices. But performance will suffer. Overall speed on the network can be influenced by the router or access point and the type of wireless connection it supports. As if often the case with technology, older devices offer slower speeds. This won't make a big difference if your ISP is only offering you 25/3 but it will slow things down considerably if you're making a service jump to 300 Mbps and your router only supports the wireless standard 802.11n (introduced in 2009). This is limited to around 150 Mbps. It can also be influenced by the age of the device used to access your wireless network. Older devices will generally only support older standards and slower speeds.</p><p>So, you have the most up to date networking equipment and devices. As stated previously, they're going to be limited by the speed of the connection coming into your library. In addition, devices on your wifi network are going to have to share the connection and bandwidth. If you do the math, you can see how a number of devices can slow down your network pretty quickly. <a href="https://broadbandnow.com/speedtest" target="_blank">BroadbandNow</a> has a speed test and a series of questions to see just how much bandwidth you need depending on number of devices and type of usage. I ran a test on a public library and got the following results - the first with 10 or fewer simultaneous users. The second with up to 15. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33JVE2XdRCj3a72o4F1OYlYfi8mRqyuN2-BDJXifyT1Rh1Fu1uAymCThs7PrJhK7teyBN7wzqEBFVfkuiSY9ayDGf9jyuhLOsXM1qyKoGQHdkmq1GDC-rE-H5u9R3MvAU1lA8SIR5f-TNP8PvSZb7EriN0fkYbWE6nCaraZtDYsHzIi8tNukzous3-A/s448/bntest100.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="396" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33JVE2XdRCj3a72o4F1OYlYfi8mRqyuN2-BDJXifyT1Rh1Fu1uAymCThs7PrJhK7teyBN7wzqEBFVfkuiSY9ayDGf9jyuhLOsXM1qyKoGQHdkmq1GDC-rE-H5u9R3MvAU1lA8SIR5f-TNP8PvSZb7EriN0fkYbWE6nCaraZtDYsHzIi8tNukzous3-A/w354-h400/bntest100.png" width="354" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMR61IqJZbZay1K8OEyDdJ4YeE2umiRyce5L2n38R38X2_W7fh_uMoP0WOcNc0K7nuGHBVNTsguev9wR8d769XmlWVJaI1CXpM2Ex-5GoKs4qj8FRtNFVehcXBc4J79phZAlWghm9d_3iUXHnoeYl865J22IyZ_USow3_0orrKpxRJEGiI9ELppjEnTQ/s432/bntest300.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="394" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMR61IqJZbZay1K8OEyDdJ4YeE2umiRyce5L2n38R38X2_W7fh_uMoP0WOcNc0K7nuGHBVNTsguev9wR8d769XmlWVJaI1CXpM2Ex-5GoKs4qj8FRtNFVehcXBc4J79phZAlWghm9d_3iUXHnoeYl865J22IyZ_USow3_0orrKpxRJEGiI9ELppjEnTQ/w365-h400/bntest300.png" width="365" /></a></div><p>You can see how simultaneous users bring up the bandwidth needs considerably. If you're doing straight math, it's easy to see. 10 users on 100 Mbps each get 10 Mbps. If we're talking about a 25 Mbps connection, those 10 users only get 2.5 Mbps.</p><p><a href="http://www.ctcnet.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Bandwidth-for-the-Library-of-the-Future-FINAL-20171025-1.pdf" target="_blank">A 2017 study funded by the Knight Foundation</a> came up with the following table showing minimum, adequate and aspirational speeds for libraries for 2017 and the future:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpU9Zseh91Iw3lpopLvafYZ_SEIGZks0fqRHWFL4hKTs26xTAqpAwV6Wpw2lXfLFdg995fEj3K7iIVWe-Fj1GOgFBqOv_lS6QRmoPM9Dpf-hTg6uce20BlZxNZ9LDcW0cn3-k6N_GzeUG951b1U4yzCBlSXUebOg-vfUu1eQ4YgKEkD5MPCVKojW6ykw/s550/librarybandwidthneeds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="550" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpU9Zseh91Iw3lpopLvafYZ_SEIGZks0fqRHWFL4hKTs26xTAqpAwV6Wpw2lXfLFdg995fEj3K7iIVWe-Fj1GOgFBqOv_lS6QRmoPM9Dpf-hTg6uce20BlZxNZ9LDcW0cn3-k6N_GzeUG951b1U4yzCBlSXUebOg-vfUu1eQ4YgKEkD5MPCVKojW6ykw/w400-h160/librarybandwidthneeds.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /> Consumer Reports has a fun little calculator <a href="https://www.consumerreports.org/internet/how-much-internet-speed-do-you-need-a1714131782/" target="_blank">How Much Internet Speed Do You Need?</a> where you can try combinations for different numbers of users doing a variety of activities. <br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE4zjitjoahG3gZHw-nwBf1i8xC8qrosjDZl3mG4dHVIFgXZZwq0FRzSYRc7jGm64BhzagmCtcRA_KpvEb-AuUEsBwzR78i45lE4NXrtnySNg2AzanH0fW2-fQZzvkmLLKnL_gjMQrz0KG_vjmt8zVgF1FMJN4Imsq4owYmvG7RXVU0okeHWQIxV_S-g/s931/crtest.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="931" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE4zjitjoahG3gZHw-nwBf1i8xC8qrosjDZl3mG4dHVIFgXZZwq0FRzSYRc7jGm64BhzagmCtcRA_KpvEb-AuUEsBwzR78i45lE4NXrtnySNg2AzanH0fW2-fQZzvkmLLKnL_gjMQrz0KG_vjmt8zVgF1FMJN4Imsq4owYmvG7RXVU0okeHWQIxV_S-g/w400-h272/crtest.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Hopefully, you can see that it's increasingly difficult to justify that an Internet connection of 25/3 is adequate. One of the challenges for libraries is that we generally have multiple users. Many of our users are accessing files and programs over the Internet including staff using ILS systems. And with people increasingly just logging onto our wifi, we may not know how many people there are on the network at any given time nor what types of programs they might be using. Are they downloading or streaming video? Are they processing photos or videos online? Are they taking part in online classes? If we want to be offering them Internet that genuinely helps meet their needs, we're probably better off scaling up rather than scaling down.<br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-86010540148020861862021-08-09T11:15:00.000-06:002021-08-09T11:15:04.149-06:00Offline moves to Fall 2021<p> Offline has traditionally been a mid-winter conference held in February. Those of us frequent attendees can attest that winter weather can often present challenges either coming or going.<br /></p><p>This year, it was decided to combine Offline with the ASLD/PLD retreat held at Chico Hot Springs in the fall. The following is from Mitch Grady:</p><p><span face="arial, sans-serif">Hear ye, hear ye,<br /><br />Our planning team is looking for your proposed sessions for this year's joint <b>Fall-Offline Retreat</b>, <b>Sunday October 3rd and Monday October 4th</b> at <b>Chico Hot Springs Resort</b> in Montana's world-famous Paradise Valley.<br /><br />Sessions may be on any<sup>1</sup> topic.
We would especially like to see your presentations on library
technology, and subjects pertaining to academic and special library
work.<br /><br />This will be the first (!) in-person MLA event since the
pandemic and related fiascos turned our lives upside-down and/or
inside-out. Let's get back together! Carefully and safely. And funly!<br /><br />A program proposal form is attached. Please return it to any of Syndie Tallman (sydnie.potillo at mt.gov), Brittany Dolezal-Herwig (bdolezal at bozeman.net), Abbi Dooley (abbid at polson.lib.mt.us), or Mitch Grady (mgrady at mtlib.org) by <b>September 4th</b> and we'll see you at the Retreat!</span><span face="arial, sans-serif"><br /></span><sup style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span></sup><span face="arial,sans-serif"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Library-related, preferably. Or not? Tell us what you got.</span></span></p><p><span face="arial,sans-serif"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.mtlib.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2020-2021-Program-Proposal-form.docx" target="_blank">Program Proposal Form</a></p>Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-26771339651052900482020-10-27T15:31:00.007-06:002023-07-17T15:14:28.649-06:00Library iPad TipsFirst of all, update your new iPad to the latest OS. As of this post, it's iPadOS 14.1. You will find it under Settings>General>Software Update. When it's up to date, you'll see a message with the current version "Your software is up to date." From that same page, you can set it up to do Automatic Updates. <div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Next, I would recommend keeping it simple. Don't use Touch ID. Use a simple 4 digit code perhaps with the library's phone number or street address. Only load apps as you need them or have requests for them. We provided some ideas in the handout for some potentially useful free productivity and meeting apps. It probably wouldn't hurt to load Pages and Numbers for those who might need to do some work or schoolwork. If you've got Google Chrome users, the Google apps could be useful. They could also be accessed via a browser, however. You might also choose to delete any of the Apple apps you don't think people will use or that you don't think are appropriate on a shared device. These can all be deleted now: Books, Calendar, Contacts, FaceTime, Files, Home, iTunes Store, Mail, Maps, Measure, Music, News, Notes, Photo Booth, Podcasts, Reminders, Shortcuts, Stocks, Tips, TV, Voice Memos. If you delete an app and find out later that your patrons want or need it, you can always reinstall it from the Apple app store. Don't link your account to a credit card unless you really need to buy apps. <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">For my home screen, I made use of the widgets for weather, news and calendar. You can use the Calendar app to post library events. I'm just using Apple News and you can set the weather for your locale. I deleted a lot of the Apple apps and grouped many of the rest into a folder. That librarian thing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCUyzyKnUlFNjXi6eCvi_WR6A8PiNSUgf9z80GoHo3NsWs0pY6LkdMLRQ8OBFAvx_sExnDBrKarPn48ugb6C8XOXUiGUlOC-dlO604KRa8rm9u0cvzkut_qJFIAmiXs21MA7papqk9sWcX/s2048/ipadhs.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="iPad home screen" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCUyzyKnUlFNjXi6eCvi_WR6A8PiNSUgf9z80GoHo3NsWs0pY6LkdMLRQ8OBFAvx_sExnDBrKarPn48ugb6C8XOXUiGUlOC-dlO604KRa8rm9u0cvzkut_qJFIAmiXs21MA7papqk9sWcX/w400-h300/ipadhs.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> </div></div><div></div><div>I don't know if there's any way to really lock an iPad down without using Mobile Device Management but you can make changes in settings that will make it less likely for a borrower to accidentally change, delete or save information. I would focus on iCloud for privacy and security. It's a wonderfully convenient service to be able to share info and apps across devices. But this is not what you want to do in a library setting.</div><div> </div><div>Go to Settings and click on your Apple ID at the top of the screen. I turned off everything but Calendars and News. You can even turn those off if you're not going to use them and/or don't plan on using them on multiple devices. It's probably not as important if you only have one iPad. Just do your best to keep it clean of personal information from your users. Erase and reset will take care of that. If you have more than one device using the same Apple ID, you really don't want information shared across devices. One setting I would definitely turn off immediately is Keychain. That enables one to save passwords across apps and across devices. That is a huge privacy and security risk. I experimented with setting up this iPad up as a child device under family sharing. I found I was unable to change or even access any of the Apple ID settings while signed in as this status. I wasn't sure about the advantages of family sharing and "child accounts" before, but controlling settings seems like it could be a benefit. It might be something to consider. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1OzyyK7D2XOAEELmT3FzVPR8pNcKmmS7lOfoUK5QYmWB-moVXDtJpZc8ijwI2XTJCLq30pke_Hwiy6SjPVOm9ZhXfmCotJI4eSApigLPV6FHp8pPpMyXM5IVX1gvAicsE5chp_3GTLwsi/s2048/ipad3.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="iPad iCloud settings" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1OzyyK7D2XOAEELmT3FzVPR8pNcKmmS7lOfoUK5QYmWB-moVXDtJpZc8ijwI2XTJCLq30pke_Hwiy6SjPVOm9ZhXfmCotJI4eSApigLPV6FHp8pPpMyXM5IVX1gvAicsE5chp_3GTLwsi/w400-h300/ipad3.PNG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I hunted down and turned off iCloud storagel.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQBVHeR706Kg5QBeuQ8xelgmVqrXxjb4LEl8RjXR352d2cYC9rBYNuX4bKUbkG0Ak6wvWYyiseeXscnq9sBRcIhyvT3PNz1bWsEGnpk-Ljw2S-B7_a2SaOkKgFHvyYjiShPP-Hqs0_eWz/s2048/ipadicloud2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="iCloud storage settings" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQBVHeR706Kg5QBeuQ8xelgmVqrXxjb4LEl8RjXR352d2cYC9rBYNuX4bKUbkG0Ak6wvWYyiseeXscnq9sBRcIhyvT3PNz1bWsEGnpk-Ljw2S-B7_a2SaOkKgFHvyYjiShPP-Hqs0_eWz/w300-h400/ipadicloud2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /> <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Another setting I would look for under Apple ID is Find My and turn on Find My iPad. This will enable you to locate the iPad if it is reported lost.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3HQ7A_wnGmWNp5Sv5v6krIvnepc4UVhgUImQ5mEFtQ2YcN1S3oivY6GdHm7xntAFOGDV-iwnOmZPP1vNmxds1jzjZxLVlBJH5qH1KX0ljqPRIeKvl-QtM6BafKPej4AJydyK1YOtT0ob9/s2048/ipadfindmy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Find My iPad settings" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3HQ7A_wnGmWNp5Sv5v6krIvnepc4UVhgUImQ5mEFtQ2YcN1S3oivY6GdHm7xntAFOGDV-iwnOmZPP1vNmxds1jzjZxLVlBJH5qH1KX0ljqPRIeKvl-QtM6BafKPej4AJydyK1YOtT0ob9/w400-h300/ipadfindmy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> When you have the iPad set up to your satisfaction. Back it up to iTunes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203977" target="_blank">How to back up your iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch - Apple support</a><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">If one is determined and willing to dig around in settings, I don't see a way to prevent intentional mischief. As I mentioned earlier, best practice should probably be to erase the iPad after each use and restore from the original backup in iTunes. To reset go to Settings>General>Reset. And click on Erase All Content and Settings.<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlRXZ6YcVI3gx4jtodeBl49e43jvHVOnnlUcKWErEOjtHdndYx_PO6W_Fb7RfiVYTn8BZUPCoioioc9aMNZlyrlnem08ayTwwCbeMPnnFt35G9Tr9WlqyWNb1s2nh1yxY0lsMxCwypOfA/s2048/ipad4.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="iPad Reset Image" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlRXZ6YcVI3gx4jtodeBl49e43jvHVOnnlUcKWErEOjtHdndYx_PO6W_Fb7RfiVYTn8BZUPCoioioc9aMNZlyrlnem08ayTwwCbeMPnnFt35G9Tr9WlqyWNb1s2nh1yxY0lsMxCwypOfA/w400-h300/ipad4.PNG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Then restore it from the backup you made in iTunes. This will erase any content your patron(s) might have added such as library account information, photos, etc. And it will restore your setup and settings for the next checkout. <br /> </div></div><p><a href="https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204184" target="_blank">Restore your iPhone, iPad or iPad touch from a Backup - Apple Support</a></p><p>Make a note of what works and doesn't work for you. We'll be planning an upcoming webinar to share some best practices and apps on these devices.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></p>Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-64215186709682551832020-04-07T12:49:00.000-06:002020-04-07T14:20:25.052-06:00Quick Start Guide for Zoom Meeting Hosts<div>
<ol>
<li>As with any other new technology, it's helpful to have attended a few meetings and learned how to navigate and customize your settings as a participant before you attempt to host your first meeting. Luckily, such opportunities abound.</li>
<li>The main difference between hosting and attending a meeting is the ability/responsibility to keep the meeting running smoothly for everyone. Check out some of the Zoom training materials <a href="https://zoom.us/resources">https://zoom.us/resources</a> and/or practice if you can with just a few people so you can get used to muting and unmuting others and look at and customize your settings before you try it with a larger and/or public group.</li>
<li>Know that there are differences between the free account and paid ones. </li>
<ul>
<li>The most notable is the time available. Free accounts are limited to 40 minutes or less for three or more participants. Paid can go for unlimited amounts of time.</li>
<li>Free accounts don't include a telephone access number. Users must join via the Internet.</li>
</ul>
<li>The issue of security has recently made hosting and running a successful Zoom meeting even more of a challenge. Unfortunately, with everyone rushing to online meetings and virtual events, many of the anonymous characters whose goal in life would appear to be making the Internet a most distasteful place for others have turned their attentions to disrupting Zoom meetings. As of Saturday, April 3, 2020, Zoom has set some security precautions as default settings. </li>
<ul>
<li>Scheduling a new meeting now automatically includes an added password. This is automatically added to the meeting URL. For someone manually entering a Meeting ID, they will also have to enter the password. You cannot disable this feature. Please note: URLs with passwords should not be shared on public websites. This defeats the security feature of the password. Instead consider sharing the information with Meeting ID and instructions for whom to contact to obtain the password. You can send individual invitations to key participants by email including URL with password.</li>
<li>Invited participants will also be placed into a waiting room before they can enter the meeting. This does make it a lot more cumbersome, especially if you are hosting a relatively large gathering, especially with people or user names you can't readily identify. New users may not have customized their settings and may enter the waiting room as simply iPhone. Zoom provides a lot of information about Waiting Room on their website <a href="https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/115000332726-Waiting-Room">https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/115000332726-Waiting-Room</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
Some of the best information and advice I've seen recently comes from the ADL: <i>How to Prevent Zoombombing</i> <a href="https://www.adl.org/blog/how-to-prevent-zoombombing">https://www.adl.org/blog/how-to-prevent-zoombombing</a><a href="https://www.adl.org/blog/how-to-prevent-zoombombing"></a><br />
<li>As the ADL article recommends, it's useful to have at least two co-hosts. One can be responsible for the content of the meeting while the other monitors chat, waiting room, muting and unmuting participants, turning on and off video, etc. All of these things can influence the quality of the meeting. For example, turning off video can help improve sound quality when there are bandwidth issues. Muting attendees who are not speaking avoids disruptions from dogs barking or other intrusions. Unwanted guests may have to be removed. It's much easier to handle these issues when you're not also trying to lead a discussion or give a presentation.</li>
</ol>
</div>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-57765489405150888312020-04-03T10:21:00.002-06:002020-04-07T14:26:18.743-06:00Zoom Quick Start Guide for Meeting/Program AttendeesMany of us are turning to Zoom for video conferencing to replace meetings and other face to face gatherings during the COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic.<br />
<br />
Some are relatively experienced with logging into and/or hosting video meetings. Others are having to do this and guide others for the first time. For the latter, I've put together this guide as a means of helping to make this new tool a bit easier.<br />
<br />
<div>
<ol>
<li>You will receive an invitation. <br />Perhaps it comes as an email. (<i>Be sure to check some of your other folders if you're expecting an invitation and don't see it. Gmail, for one, tends to sort these coming out of mail programs as Promotions. You may find meeting/event invitations there as well.</i>)<br />Or you may find it in an event notice from a newsletter or Facebook page.</li>
<li>The invitation will probably look something like this:<br /><div class="MsoNormal">
Topic: Anytown Virtual Event<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Time: Mar 30, 2020 10:00 AM Mountain Time (US and Canada)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Join Zoom Meeting<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Meeting ID: 555 555 5555<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/5555555555<br />
<br />
As of April 4th, the meeting links will look much longer as they include an encrypted password for extra security. It will look more like this:<br />
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/5555555555?pwd=NzMyeVhldS90OHhWZGdneTdvZCtkdz09<br />
<br />
But clicking on it should take you directly into the meeting.<br />
<br />
If someone will be joining the meeting from a computer, tablet or smart phone with Internet access, all s/he needs to do is click on the link above. It will prompt the user to download the necessary app and/or go to the Zoom website where they can join the meeting.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One tap mobile<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
+16695555555,, 5555555555# US (San Jose)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
+13465555555,, 5555555555# US (Houston)<br />
<br />
One tap mobile may not be particularly useful for most users. When we tried it out, it worked fairly easily if one could copy and paste from email into their phone's dialer. Then it provides a quick way to dial in and listen to the audio portion of a meeting but not the video. Might be an option for someone who is fairly comfortable with technology but has limited or no bandwidth where they're located.<br />
<br />
Dial by your location<br />
+Above phone
number (San Jose)<br />
+Above phone
number US (Houston)<br />
Followed by additional
phone numbers for other US cities and/or just US<br />
Meeting ID: 555 555 5555<br />
Password: 654321<br />
<br />
This would be the option I would recommend for anyone who has a cell phone, but not a smart phone, or perhaps is not at all comfortable with technology. Here they just select a number. The locations may make a difference if there is a local one, if not any of them should work. The user will then be prompted to enter the meeting ID. So, all it takes is a phone number followed by the pound sign #, then the meeting ID followed by the pound sign #<br />
<br />
Note due to increased demand, free accounts no longer come with phone support. Someone who wants to join a zoom meeting hosted by a free account must do so via the Internet using an app or web browser.</div>
</li>
<li>Or you may find an online gathering you'd like to attend via a Facebook event notice or email list. In which case, you may only get the following information<br />Time: Wednesday, April 29th, 05:30 pm MDT<br />Location: Join Zoom Meeting https://us04web.zoom.us/j/123456789<br />Meeting ID: 123 456 78<br /><br />Clicking on the Zoom Meeting link should provide you with access to the meeting. There is no phone access available.</li>
<li>Waiting rooms are also becoming increasingly common as hosts strive to make their meetings more secure. You can make things easier on hosts by downloading Zoom ahead of time and setting up the app for your computer, tablet or smart phone with your name. That way, hosts don't have to try to guess who iPhone might be. <a href="https://zoom.us/download#client_4meeting">https://zoom.us/download#client_4meeting</a></li>
<li>It's good meeting etiquette to mute your microphone except when you're talking. It cuts down on background noise and makes it easier to hear and follow the main speaker. If you're in the Zoom app, you'll find a microphone at the bottom of the screen. Click on it to mute and unmute. If the host has everyone muted but allows participants to unmute to speak, remember to mute again when you're done speaking.</li>
<li>Users who want to get more comfortable using Zoom can view one or more of the tutorials on their website. I would recommend starting with Join a Meeting</li>
<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hIkCmbvAHQQ" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
There are additional tutorials available in the Zoom Resource Center under Zoom How to Videos <a href="https://zoom.us/resources">https://zoom.us/resources</a>
<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<div>
</div>
</ol>
</div>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-36913452461044629622020-03-25T13:35:00.002-06:002020-03-26T10:00:37.829-06:00Pandemic Broadband Service Changes<h4>
Updated 3/26/2020</h4>
<br />
Some of the ISPs and wireless providers have made changes to their service offerings largely in response to the FCC's Keep Americans Connected Initiative <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/keep-americans-connected">https://www.fcc.gov/keep-americans-connected</a>. I've scoured the websites and Facebook pages for Montana ISPs and the major national wireless providers. Most have statements about closing offices and payment options. If I found additional information, I'm including it here along with links. If your provider isn't listed, the only information I found pertained to office closings, contact information, and/or bill payment. I've discovered that many appear to be updating their Facebook pages more often than their web pages. That may be the best place to look for the most current information. I know that most of the small ISPs are coops and are run on very small margins so they probably can't afford the grand gestures of Charter/Spectrum and Verizon, for example. But if you have specific needs during this time I would encourage you to contact them to see what can be worked out.<br />
<br />
In addition, there are numerous small cellular providers known as MVNOs. A couple of the better known ones are Consumer Cellular and TracPhone. I didn't look up to see what any of these might be offering at this time. But if you or some of your community members find yourself in a pinch, mobile hotspots are almost impossible to fine. It might be worth looking into a cheap cell phone and low cost no contract data plan from one of these many providers. Just be sure to check which network they use for their data. T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T should work in most of the state. Sprint doesn't work in Montana.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Montana ISPs and National Wireless Providers</h3>
<h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<h4>
3 Rivers</h4>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Three Rivers has asked schools to provide them with names of students and if their home is set up with a landline they will hook internet up for free until April 30th. </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Individuals cannot contact them directly, it had to have come from a school official. </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i>Thanks to Aaron LaFromboise for this update.</i></span><br />
<br />
Access Montana<o:p></o:p></div>
</h4>
Access Montana will provide free internet installs to residential and small business customers<br />
<br />
Access Montana will offer a $25 credit per month on internet services for new accounts<br />
<br />
A $25 monthly credit for internet services will be offered to existing customers that have a member of the household in school or have switched to remotely working for their job. Please call 406-676-3300 and ask how to apply for this credit<br />
<br />
Access Montana will refrain from suspending any customers that have been affected by COVID-19<br />
<br />
Late fees for nonpayment will not be charged on the accounts also affected by COVID-19<br />
<br />
<a href="https://accessmontana.com/">https://accessmontana.com/</a><br />
<br />
<div>
<h4>
AT&T - March 24, 2020</h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div>
AT&T Offering Schools 60 days unlimited data for Laptops, Tablets and Hotspots; Also Offers free access to Caribu Video Calling App</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
With the unprecedented impacts COVID-19 is having on society, keeping millions of students and teachers home for the foreseeable future, we’re stepping up to enable virtual classrooms across the country. Beginning today, we’re offering schools a way to save on unlimited wireless broadband connectivity for students. Through May 22nd, qualified schools activating new lines on qualified data-only plans for school-issued tablets, 4G LTE-enabled laptops and hotspot devices will get the wireless data service at no cost for 60 days.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And schools know they need to protect their students while online – so we’re also making AccessMyLANTM for the qualified lines available at no cost for 60 days. This service allows school administrators to manage the internet sites their students can access to help protect them from unsafe content and also to block malicious sites, malware and hacking attempts. Please visit the Community section, under Supporting Education, on this site to learn more about these offers.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Additionally, to help keep families connected during this uncertain time, AT&T is also funding 60 days of free access and unlimited usage of Caribu, a video-calling application that allows family members to read, draw, and play games with one another while in distant locations. The Caribu application, which integrates children's books, coloring activities, and games will be available to families across the country and around the world, free of cost, for the next two months.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Caribu is the second recipient to receive a contribution from AT&T’s new $10 million Distance Learning and Family Connections fund, announced last week. AT&T has also contributed $1M to Kahn Academy to help improve and expand online learning resources to meet growing demand from parents, teachers and students, including those who rely on free resources and need Khan Academy the most.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
AT&T is also underwriting expenses for a “one-stop” resource center to support eLearning Days from the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA) available to all educators in schools to help them handle school closures and the increase in virtual learning due to COVID-19. Click here to learn more. <a href="https://www.setda.org/outreach/press-releases/press-release-2020/press-release-att-supports-setda-elearning-coalition-amidst-covid-19-virus/">https://www.setda.org/outreach/press-releases/press-release-2020/press-release-att-supports-setda-elearning-coalition-amidst-covid-19-virus/</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://about.att.com/pages/COVID-19.html">https://about.att.com/pages/COVID-19.html</a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
Blackfoot</h4>
<div>
<div>
Blackfoot joined FCC’s Keep Americans Connected Initiative – March 16, 2020</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In agreeing to the Keep Americans Connected pledge, Blackfoot will commit to the following:</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>We will not terminate service to any customer due to an inability to pay bill</li>
<li>We will waive late fees </li>
<li>We will open Wi-Fi hot spots to any customer who needs them</li>
</ol>
<div>
<a href="https://www.blackfoot.com/news/blackfoot-joins-fccs-pledge-to-keep-americans-connected/">https://www.blackfoot.com/news/blackfoot-joins-fccs-pledge-to-keep-americans-connected/</a><br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<h4>
Charter/Spectrum</h4>
<div>
<div>
Charter to Offer Free Access to Spectrum Broadband and Wi-Fi For 60 Days For New K-12 and College Student Households and More</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/charter-to-offer-free-access-to-spectrum-broadband-and-wifi-for-60-days-for-new-K12-and-college-student-households-and-more">https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/charter-to-offer-free-access-to-spectrum-broadband-and-wifi-for-60-days-for-new-K12-and-college-student-households-and-more</a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
Interbel – March 16, 2020</h4>
<div>
<div>
Due to ongoing closures and the resulting increase in internet demand, an additional 100 Gb of data cap space will be added each members account starting today March 16, 2020. We also want all of our members to stay connected to loved ones and informed about current events, as a result we are suspending all disconnect activity thru the end of April.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/InterbelTelephone/">https://www.facebook.com/InterbelTelephone/</a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
Mid-Rivers March 16, 2020</h4>
<div>
<div>
It is our practice to waive late fees, set up payment plans for customers who may need it to prevent disconnection of services, and offer a hand up in hard times. That hasn’t changed, so contact us if you need help – we want you to remain our customer and keep your critical services.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>As Mid-Rivers offers a rather unique plan whereby customers are charged by data usage, they attempt to assuage concerns about increased usage and costs by offering tips and links whereby one can monitor and limit data usage to hold down costs. </i>Editorial comment not from website</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.midrivers.com/covid-19-response.html">https://www.midrivers.com/covid-19-response.html</a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
Nemont</h4>
<div>
<div>
Nemont Statement on Working or Education from home – March 17, 2020</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you are a current customer and are now working from home or your children are utilizing distance learning due to COVID-19 please contact our customer service at 800-636-6680 or chat online at nemont.com and select the chat function to talk about options for your internet speed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We know you may have additional questions about Nemont operations during this unprecedented situation. We will issue further statements with any new updates as they become available.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Signed onto the Pledge to Keep Americans Connected</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.nemont.com/announcements/press-releases/covid-19-statement/">https://www.nemont.com/announcements/press-releases/covid-19-statement/</a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
Triangle</h4>
<div>
<div>
Triangle Community Wi-Fi – Free Wi-Fi in Select Locations</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We are proud to announce that we are implementing Community Wi-Fi programs in our service area! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As a value-added service to your broadband, all Triangle Communications broadband members will have free access to Wi-Fi in select locations.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.itstriangle.com/community-wifi">https://www.itstriangle.com/community-wifi</a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
Verizon</h4>
<div>
<div>
When a Verizon customer is experiencing hardships because of COVID-19, Verizon will waive late fees for 60 days from March 16, 2020 to May 13, 2020, and will not terminate service to a customer who's been impacted by the events involving the Coronavirus. If our customers are experiencing a hardship, they should call our customer service team to discuss their situation and available options. Customer support contact numbers, an online chat feature and support content can be found on the following pages:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Wireless: <a href="https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/">https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/</a></div>
<div>
Business: <a href="https://www.verizon.com/business/gateway/">https://www.verizon.com/business/gateway/</a></div>
<div>
In Home: <a href="https://www.verizon.com/support/residential/home">https://www.verizon.com/support/residential/home</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Verizon will offer free international calling to countries identified by the Center for Disease Control as level 3 impacted by the coronavirus effective 3/18 through the end of April. This is available to wireless postpaid consumer and small/medium business customers, and landline home phone customers. Unlimited calling will be included for mobile and landline calls, with the exception of Iran, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovenia provided 300 minutes of free calls per month. Effective 3/19, wireless prepaid customers will also receive a total of 300 additional minutes to call level 3 countries.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Verizon will also waive activation fees on new lines of service and upgrade fees starting March 18. This applies to all purchases and service-only activations made through Verizon digital channels, such as verizonwireless.com and the My Verizon app.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Through April 30, Verizon will offer unlimited domestic calling to customers on limited-minute plans. Eligible customers will receive a text message to inform them of the offer. No action is necessary; the offer will automatically be added to eligible accounts. [Updated on 03/20/2020]</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.verizon.com/about/news/our-response-coronavirus">https://www.verizon.com/about/news/our-response-coronavirus</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-34183554707058154262020-01-14T14:26:00.001-07:002020-01-14T14:45:19.995-07:00Buying a new PC for your library?Some of you who've been around the Montana library community for a few years might recall fondly when Montana State Library personnel would periodically post current recommended computer specifications for those looking to buy new PCs for their library. We stopped doing that several years ago, when Mike Price, our computer guru at the time, stated that just about any computer currently on the market would suffice for library usage. And I think he's right. But that still doesn't help much when you find yourself overwhelmed with all kinds of numbers and terms in a language that doesn't make any sense.<br />
<br />
I've been asked for help by a couple of librarians lately so I thought I'd share what some of the terminology means and how I make my way through the jumble.<br />
<br />
The key question to ask and answer is, what will you be using the computer for? If it's for office applications, browsing the web, answering emails, etc., you can get by with a fairly inexpensive computer with modest specifications. And by modest, I'm referring primarily to Processor and Memory or RAM. If you want a computer for graphics or video processing and/or especially for gaming, you're going to need much faster processing power, more memory and better graphics cards. All of that makes for a much more expensive computer.<br />
<br />
My favorite place to start shopping for computers is the Costco website. I like it because they have a nice mix of higher and lower end computers without there being thousands to choose from. So, I can do some quick comparisons to get an idea of what's reasonable. So here I grabbed a quick comparison of the cheapest and most expensive models they had on their website:<br />
<table>
<tbody>
<tr><th width="33%">Description</th>
<th width="33%">Dell Inspiron Desktop - Intel Core i5</th>
<th width="33%">CyberPowerPC Supreme Liquid Cooled Gaming Desktop - 9th Gen Intel Core i9-9900K</th></tr>
<tr>
<td>Storage Type</td>
<td>Disk Drive + Solid State Drive</td>
<td>Disk Drive + Solid State Drive</td></tr>
<tr>
<td>SSD Size</td>
<td>128 GB</td>
<td>1 TB</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RAM Included</td>
<td>12 GB</td>
<td>64 GB</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Processor</td>
<td>Intel Core i5</td>
<td>Intel Core i9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Optical Drive</td>
<td>DVD±RW</td>
<td>No Optical Drive</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hard Drive Size</td>
<td>1 TB</td>
<td>3 TB</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Graphic Card</td>
<td>Intel UHD 630</td>
<td>NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080Ti</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Generation</td>
<td>Intel 9th Generation</td>
<td>Intel 9th Generation</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Price</td>
<td>$499.99 after $200 off</td>
<td>$2,799.99</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Keep in mind, these are ends of the spectrum. If you're looking for a PC to do office applications, you'll be looking more at computers on the Dell end. If you're looking at gaming PCs or high end graphics/video editing PCs, you'll be looking more to the CyberPowerPC end.<br />
<br />
A few points to keep in mind. These two computers feature both hard disk and solid state drives. That seems to be increasingly common. You may also see just solid state drives or SSDs. You'll notice that these are generally smaller than the hard disks. They're also faster and more expensive. They give you a quicker start up for one thing. You'll note that the Dell has a DVD drive while the gaming PC has no optical drive. A DVD drive is handy if you have software or perhaps movies on DVD you'd like to run on the computer. Otherwise, everything must be downloaded from the Internet or added on with an external DVD drive.<br />
<br />
The RAM varies considerably between these two computers. More RAM generally gives better performance. The processors are both Intel 9th generation. That can be helpful information if you're comparing computers and one has older components. These specs don't provide the number of cores or the speed in Mhz, but the i9 is a faster and more powerful CPU. Another big difference in performance and price comes with the graphics cards.<br />
<br />
------------------------------------------------------<br />
If you want to see just what is needed to run the particular software you're looking at, you can always go to the requirements page for that software. As an example, here are the requirements listed for <b>Office Professional 2019 from Microsoft </b>as of 1/14/2020:<br />
<br />
<b>COMPONENT REQUIREMENT</b><br />
<br />
Computer and processor<br />
1.6 gigahertz (GHz) or faster, 2-core<br />
<br />
Memory<br />
4 GB RAM; 2 GB RAM (32-bit)<br />
<br />
Hard disk<br />
4.0 GB of available disk space<br />
<br />
Display<br />
1280 x 768 screen resolution<br />
<br />
Graphics<br />
Graphics hardware acceleration requires DirectX 9 or later, with WDDM 2.0 or higher for Windows 10 (or WDDM 1.3 or higher for Windows 10 Fall Creators Update).<br />
<br />
You can see that the lower end Dell is probably sufficient, but you may want to get more details to make sure that the processor meets the specifications.<br />
<br />
-----------------------------------------------------------<br />
If you want to run <b>Adobe Photoshop</b> on the PC, here are the specifications as of 1/14/2020:<br />
<br />
<b>Minimum Requirements</b><br />
<br />
Processor<br />
Intel® or AMD processor with 64-bit support*; 2 GHz or faster processor<br />
<br />
Operating system<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Microsoft Windows 7* with Service Pack 1 (64-bit)**,<br />
Microsoft Windows 10*** October 2018 update (64-bit) version 1809 or later<br />
<br />
RAM<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
2 GB or more of RAM (8 GB recommended)<br />
<br />
Graphics card<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
nVidia GeForce GTX 1050 or equivalent; nVidia GeForce GTX 1660 or Quadro T1000 is recommended<br />
<br />
Hard disk space<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
3.1 GB or more of available hard-disk space for 64-bit installation; additional free space required during installation (cannot install on a volume that uses a case-sensitive file system)<br />
<br />
Monitor resolution<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
1280 x 800 display at 100% UI scaling with 16-bit color and 512 MB or more of dedicated VRAM; 2 GB is recommended †<br />
<br />
The Dell is probably okay for everything but the graphics card. Photoshop requires a more advanced graphics card but not one as high end as in the gaming PC. You can either shop for another PC with better graphics capability or shop from a website that will allow you to customize certain features of your PC. The Adobe Photoshop system requirements page gives lots of information on compatible graphics cards.<br />
<br />
----------------------------------------------------------<br />
So, while there's a lot of information and the numbers and details can be confusing, there are really only a few that you really need to concern yourself with. And what you get in those depends on what you want to do with the PC. If you have that planned out ahead of time, you know what you have to look for as a minimum. Then, it's usually a good idea to get a bit more to allow for improvements and greater capabilities and demands over the next few years.<br />
<br />
If you still have questions ask your tech support and/or contact us at the State Library.Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-29275397914276944242019-12-17T13:34:00.000-07:002019-12-18T15:53:23.994-07:003 Things You Can Do to Improve Your Security on the InternetI know it can feel like the only way to have any kind of security with Internet hacks and exploits these days is by going offline and heading to a cave. But there are a few relatively easy steps you can take that will make a big difference.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><b>Use a password manager.</b><span style="font-weight: normal;"> One of the worst things you can do is to use the same password over and over again. Another no no is to use passwords that are easy to guess, e.g., Password or 12345 or even something you think is clever like P@ssw0rd. I know a number of people who create good passwords and write them in a book. Okay, if that works for you. I exhausted my good passwords years ago and now suffer from password overload. One of the benefits of a password manager is that they create randomly generated secure passwords for you on demand. And they can be accessed wherever you are so you don't need to generate a new password when you're traveling and the app you need for your hotel reservations has mysteriously forgotten your password. Your trusty password book is a thousand miles away and seemingly your only option is to do a password reset and hope that all works out in a timely fashion.Of course, you will need a good strong password for your password manager - preferably a phrase you can remember.</span></li>
<a href="https://www.pcmag.com/roundup/300318/the-best-password-managers" target="_blank"></a><ul><a href="https://www.pcmag.com/roundup/300318/the-best-password-managers" target="_blank"></a>
<li><a href="https://www.pcmag.com/roundup/300318/the-best-password-managers" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.pcmag.com/roundup/300318/the-best-password-managers" target="_blank">The Best Password Managers for 2019 PCMag</a> - this is a review of paid services</li>
<li><a href="https://www.cnet.com/news/best-password-managers-for-2019/" target="_blank">The best password managers for 2019 and how to use them CNET</a> - offers free and paid options</li>
</ul>
<li><b style="font-weight: bold;">Use two factor authentication whenever possible.</b> I know this one is a hassle. I frequently mutter unkind things under my breath when I need to log in again to LastPass (my password manager of choice), Google, Facebook, etc. Basically, if it's something that you REALLY don't want hacked, e.g., your password manager, two factor authentication is really important. Google is also very important as Gmail is a primary email for me and someone getting into that could do serious damage. Facebook is more to eliminate the worry that many have that they're getting hacked when it's an impostor. Consequently, I don't need to panic when I get those bizarre messages from friends telling me I've been hacked and to forward to everyone I know. I don't think so...<br />Two factor authentication can take a number of different forms. The least secure is a text, phone or email message giving you a code you need to enter into a form as verification. The reason it's the least secure and effective is that if you're being targeted, there's a good chance the culprit trying to gain access to your accounts may have already accessed phone data and/or email. There are authenticator apps. I use one from Google. It continuously generates random number combinations. Of course, if you lose the device where the app is, or you don't have Internet access, you're out of luck. In addition there are physical devices or fobs. We have one for the state that works like my Google authenticator constantly generating random numbers. There are also fobs that act as keys. You plug them in and they unlock access to devices, apps, websites. The downside here is that you always have to have the fob with you.</li>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-and-why-to-use-two-factor-authentication/" target="_blank">Two-factor authentication: How and why to use it</a> - more information from CNET including how to set it up on a number of frequently used sites</li>
</ul>
<li><b>Keep software and firmware up to date. </b>I know there have been some problems in the past with updates, particularly operating system updates for Windows or Mac which have made many people wary about updating software. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." Some of those concerns are valid, particularly when we're talking about major features updates, e.g., from Windows 7 or 8 to 10 or one of the annual Apple Mac OS or iOS updates. It can happen that peripherals like printers need new drivers to operate and/or frequently used software or apps are not updated right away or at all and stop working. Yes, there are good reasons to wait at least a few weeks for some of the bugs to get worked out before jumping to the next shiny version.<br />But one should make the leap eventually. Major releases often include major fixes for bugs and security flaws. And the more incremental periodic updates throughout the year should just be downloaded and installed automatically. These include patches to serious security vulnerabilities. You don't want to wait on these.<br />Microsoft saves up most of their updates for a monthly "Patch Tuesday". This is generally on the second Tuesday of the month. This is when Microsoft rolls out updates for Windows, Office, Internet Explorer, etc. It is not a features update that one needs to be concerned about but rather important security updates and tested bug fixes. But you should also note that if the security update is important enough, Microsoft won't wait until the second Tuesday but will release it as soon as it becomes available.<br />Automatic updates are the easiest way to make sure that your devices have the latest security and bug fixes for your computer, phone, tablet.<br />But you may very well have other Internet connected devices that also need security and bug fixes. Your router is an important and vulnerable piece of hardware that is frequently overlooked. Be sure to change the default password and keep router firmware up to date. In fact, just about every IoT (Internet of Things) device is also subject to the threat of hacking and misuse: smart plugs, smart bulbs, smart TVs, smart thermostats, streaming devices (Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV), video doorbells (Ring, Nest), baby monitors, home security systems, voice assistant/speakers (Amazon Echo, Google Nest/Home, Apple Homepod), smart appliances (refrigerators, microwaves, crockpots controlled by apps via the Internet). Often times, brand names will update automatically. Or you can go into the app or visit the product website to download and install updates. Unfortunately, many of the bargain brands won't ever offer updates. Beware of those. As in many other situations, you get what you pay for.</li>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://readwrite.com/2019/09/05/9-main-security-challenges-for-the-future-of-the-internet-of-things-iot/" target="_blank">9 Main Security Challenges for the Future of the Internet Of Things (IoT) </a>- not to scare you but a good rundown of things to consider when shopping for and maintaining smart devices for your home.</li>
</ul>
</ol>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-79014039067254473462019-11-29T10:59:00.004-07:002019-11-29T11:00:19.589-07:00Evaluating Tech GiftsAre you looking for some assistance in determining whether or not a particular tech device might be an appropriate gift this holiday season? I'd like to recommend a couple of websites that can provide useful information for your decision making process.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Wirecutter <a href="https://thewirecutter.com/">https://thewirecutter.com/</a></h4>
Wirecutter is from the New York Times and provides reviews of a wide variety of items. They're also known for evaluating deals and recommending best deals on big shopping days like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Mozilla *Privacy Not Included <a href="https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/privacynotincluded/">https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/privacynotincluded/</a></h4>
Mozilla, the people who brought us Firefox also bring us a website evaluating some of the latest tech devices in terms of privacy. The ratings range from Not creepy! to Super creepy! They rate in terms of what they deem Minimum Security Standards - Five basic steps every company should take to protect consumer privacy.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Encryption</li>
<li>Security updates</li>
<li>Strong password</li>
<li>Manages vulnerabilities</li>
<li>Privacy policy</li>
</ul>
<div>
As you might surmise, products rated Not creepy! pass these five standards. As they climb the creepy scale, you'll see where they come up short according to Mozilla's evaluation process. Good to be aware of. And even if you aren't concerned about privacy, you may want to keep in mind your potential gift recipient.</div>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-62048963556279114722019-06-13T16:38:00.000-06:002019-06-13T17:01:52.137-06:00Advances in AccessibilityBoth Google and Apple have had their developers' conferences for the year where they unveiled all kinds of new features. What stood out to me, in particular, however, were the advances in accessibility.<br />
<br />
Let's start with Apple. This article from Tech Crunch goes into a lot of detail about the various accessibility advances coming up in Apple's various operating systems to be updated this fall: <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2019/06/05/apples-global-accessibility-head-on-the-companys-new-accessibility-features/" target="_blank">Apple’s global accessibility head on the company’s new features for iOS 13 and macOS Catalina</a>.<br />
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Voice control is the first big advance discussed at the keynote. It purports to allow seamless movements between navigating, using apps and creating and sending content. The video shown at the keynote makes it all look quite usable.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/aqoXFCCTfm4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aqoXFCCTfm4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
And to learn more about other existing accessibility features in Apple software and devices, check out this article from iMore: <a href="https://www.imore.com/apple-accessibility-human-right" target="_blank">Apple: Accessibility is a Human Right</a>.<br />
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This CNET video from YouTube gives a good summary of Google's recent announcements at its annual I/O conference. The first part covers mostly accessibility features including text to speech using a phone's camera, AI assisted voice control, live captioning, etc.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uBP9K2QJSSs/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uBP9K2QJSSs?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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Of course one of the downsides to Apple's offerings is that they're limited to Apple devices: iPhones, iPads, Macs, etc. As these devices tend to be more expensive, that can limit their reach. Google makes apps available on multiple platforms and the Android operating system runs on a wide variety of devices ranging from very cheap to high end. The problem is that Android Q may never run on most of the devices currently on the market. And, for now, some of the features are limited to Google's own Pixel devices.<br />
<br />
Another major player in the accessibility arena is Microsoft. They produce apps like Seeing AI which is available for iOS (not yet for Android) and allows a user to point the device's camera at text and have it read aloud. It also attempts to identify objects in photos. When I tested it, it identified a red flower and my dog with a toy in his mouth as a brown dog with a frisbee - close enough. But when I asked it to identify a mountain range, it could only identify the clouds. It seems to default to grey a lot with colors and wanted to make my dog green. It was spot on with currency and identifying products by their barcode.<br />
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There's an entire section on the Microsoft website devoted to <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/accessibility/" target="_blank">Accessibility</a> In addition, they have a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/MSFTEnable" target="_blank">YouTube channel devoted to Accessibility Training called MSFTEnable</a> which includes a number of training videos exploring how to use many of their accessibility features.<br />
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There is progress being made and tools we can all use to make our websites, trainings and resources more accessible to everyone.<br />
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<br />Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-40200201003659421642019-02-14T10:10:00.000-07:002019-02-14T13:21:20.536-07:00Testing Voice Assistants 2019In Facebook memories today, I was reminded of a fun little test I ran 3 years ago comparing the responses of various voice assistants to some possible Valentine's Day queries and interactions. Here were the initial results:<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Fun with AI on Valentine's Day: Pt. 2<br />
1) <i>What's a good gift for my boyfriend for Valentine's Day?</i><br />
<b>Alexa</b>: no response<br />
<b>Siri</b> and <b>Google</b>: list of websites with gift suggestions for guys on Valentine's Day.<br />
2) <i>Where's a good place for dinner on Valentine's Day?</i><br />
<b>Alexa</b>: no response<br />
<b>Google</b>: lists of websites with recommended restaurants for Valentine's Day in Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, NYC, etc.<br />
<b>Siri</b>: list of 12 restaurants in Billings with reviews on Yelp.<br />
I'd have to say it's a tie between Siri and Google. Siri nailed the local and provided recommended restaurants within a mile of my location. But not all fit with the Valentine's Day theme. I wouldn't pick Pug Mahon's for a romantic dinner. It's not open today. 😉🍺<br />
Google picked up on the romantic theme. If I were a Google exec with a private jet, I'd have a world of possibilities.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And here are the results from 2019:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
<i>Happy Valentine's Day</i></div>
<div>
<b>Alexa</b>: Ah, that's sweeter than a box of chocolates. Happy Valentine's Day to you, too.</div>
<div>
<b>Google Assistant</b>: Happy Valentine’s Day! If you want to say “I love you” to someone special, you can try saying it in Mandarin. It’s pronounced "wo ai ni" 💗</div>
<div>
<b>Siri</b>: Happy Valentine's Day</div>
<div>
<b>Cortana</b>: Happy Valentine's Day to you!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>What's a good gift for Valentine's Day?</i></div>
<div>
<b>Alexa</b>: Hmm, I don't know that.</div>
<div>
<b>Google Assistant</b>: List of websites with gift ideas for Valentine's Day but also included some suggestions for possible search refinements, e.g., What do you get guys for Valentine's Day?</div>
<div>
<b>Siri</b>: List of websites with gift ideas for Valentine's Day (those at the top for women. Apparently more people search the web for gifts for women than for men).</div>
<div>
<b>Cortana</b>: I'm sorry I can't help out with that one, but I found this on the web. List of websites with one for her followed by one for him. Very egalitarian. 😄</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Where should I have dinner on Valentine's Day?</i></div>
<div>
<b>Alexa on Echo Show</b>: 10 Creative Valentine's Day Date Ideas video from USA Today</div>
<div>
<b>Google Assistant</b>: Listed 3 nice restaurants within 6 miles.</div>
<div>
<b>Siri</b>: List of 5 restaurants within one mile. One was fast food and another, Pug Mahon, was recently closed. </div>
<div>
<b>Cortana</b>: I'm sorry I can't help out with that one, but I found this on the web. List of websites mostly with recipes and a couple with reasons why you should never go out for dinner on Valentine's Day. I guess it answered the question.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Will you be my Valentine?</i></div>
<div>
<b>Alexa</b>: That's sweet to ask but I already have a strong connection to your WiFi.</div>
<div>
<b>Google Assistant</b>: I found a few places within 0.8 miles (??)</div>
<div>
<b>Siri</b>: I don't have an answer for that</div>
<div>
<b>Cortana</b>: Of course I can be your virtual Valentine. Would you like me to sing a love song to celebrate? </div>
<div>
(<i>And goes on to sing, yes sing!</i>)</div>
<div>
Red is the rose in yonder garden grows, and fair is the lily of the valley, clear is the water that flows from the Boyne, but my love is fairer than any.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Conclusion: Google Assistant is probably the most efficient at answering questions and providing the kind of information one is looking for but it's lacking in fun.</div>
<div>
Alexa is fun to interact with but results differ depending on whether you're interacting with just the voice assistant via Echo or a visual interface on an Echo Show or Spot. I think you'll often get more useful results with a visual interface.</div>
<div>
Siri continues to be an also ran. The choice of genders and nationalities offers some personality but it continues to lack the ability to meet what I would consider basic expectations from a voice assistant.</div>
<div>
I'd never used Cortana before and was surprised by both the natural voice and quality of responses. But singing a love song verged on creepy to my mind. Flashbacks to <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1798709/" target="_blank">"Her"</a>.<br />
<br />
One additional note: I tested Google Assistant, Siri and Cortana all on an iPad. So, while it is disappointing at first glance that Apple's entry into the AI/voice assistant race is rather lackluster, iOS users do have other options through apps. You can also access Alexa through an iOS app. I'm assuming most of these, aside from Siri, are also available to Android users through the Google Playstore. </div>
</div>
</div>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-82861984722798598402018-02-07T17:32:00.001-07:002018-02-08T11:01:36.304-07:00Digital Assistants or AI Everywhere<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggBZLhoRxKhpSajKQbTXcP8x_zBDFckP5ko4zrItHCw9Ue2mE7x7TeEbjYrNg56GaRA6fR5dNVSy0NanqUYJ78y6It-uG0daPybC5Y0A1ewyoKZkjgmYQsXkch_uVSf0krnxEuph7OUob8/s1600/digassists.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="740" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggBZLhoRxKhpSajKQbTXcP8x_zBDFckP5ko4zrItHCw9Ue2mE7x7TeEbjYrNg56GaRA6fR5dNVSy0NanqUYJ78y6It-uG0daPybC5Y0A1ewyoKZkjgmYQsXkch_uVSf0krnxEuph7OUob8/s320/digassists.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
One of the major topics of conversation coming out of this year's CES was that digital assistants seemed to be everywhere. Digital assistants are an example of artificial intelligence (AI) and are found in products like Amazon's Alexa, Google's Google Assistant, Apple's Siri and Microsoft's Cortana. The products most associated with these AI are Amazon Echo, Google Home, and just recently available for sale, Apple HomePod. They range in price from slightly under $50 for Amazon Echo Dot and Google Home Mini to $349 for Apple HomePod. There are also third party manufacturers creating devices for use with these AI, e.g., Harman Kardon makes a speaker for Cortana. Sonos makes a speaker that works with Alexa and promises to integrate eventually with Google Assistant.<br />
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Google Assistant, Siri and Cortana have all been around for several years and accessible via smartphone, tablet and/or computer. So, we've had a little while to get used to the pros and cons of interacting with voice activated digital assistants. But their move into the home started with Amazon's Echo, essentially a smart speaker, a couple of years ago.<br />
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Smart speakers coordinate with music streaming services so you can ask them to play a wide variety of music. The AI can look up information on the web so you can ask for weather or news updates. You can ask also ask for event information like movies and times near you. You can even ask for calculations and conversions, e.g., teaspoons to ounces for cooking, or Fahrenheit to Celsius. Smart speakers are often tied in with the Internet of Things and can work with various gadgets and appliances. As they tend to take answers off the top without scrutiny, they may not always be the best sources for reliable unbiased information. Alexa tends to over rely on Wikipedia, for example. So when people change the Wikipedia entries, answers can change. A recent article in Fortune:<a href="http://fortune.com/2018/01/27/google-home-jesus/" style="font-style: italic;" target="_blank"> 'Who Is Jesus?' Google Home Couldn't Answer and People Weren't Happy</a><i> </i>helps illustrate some of the potential problems in AIs remaining unbiased in a polarized information world. Amazon Echo, in particular, also has a large variety of third party skills available so it can be used for an ever growing number of games and various tasks.<br />
<br />
Digital assistants are offering a lot of possibilities to people with visual and physical disabilities. They may prove particularly useful to our aging population. They offer quick information in response to verbal requests and can be asked repeatedly for the same information without ever showing signs of tiring or exasperation. As they can also be tied in to IoT hubs and devices, they can be used for routine tasks like turning on and off lights, locking doors, changing channels on TV, setting thermostats, as well as monitoring cameras and doors for security. People can use them to order groceries or other supplies as well as provide reminders of appointments or times to take medications. They can be linked to family members' devices for quick calling features. In short, they might make it easier for people to stay in their homes and for families to feel comfortable about it. There are many articles such as this one written on the topic: <a href="http://dailycaring.com/amazon-echo-for-dementia-technology-for-seniors/" target="_blank">Amazon Echo for Dementia: Technology for Seniors</a><br />
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One of the downsides is privacy concerns over always on listening devices in the home. There are indications when they're actively listening. The Echo lights up blue as in the photo.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscnVn021sYoeMPVUnJRa7pOepzFbZwC5qeetaKIYmd_D4U4_aJ4iiVWg4YJjkeGePBCSlZreRkzxM-YgcI364wx_mRTfSD-duJU4FUztq11jKN8cpVIRSvRAQfmNLFe0OdSDY500ZWDOY/s1600/echo_on.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="368" data-original-width="496" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscnVn021sYoeMPVUnJRa7pOepzFbZwC5qeetaKIYmd_D4U4_aJ4iiVWg4YJjkeGePBCSlZreRkzxM-YgcI364wx_mRTfSD-duJU4FUztq11jKN8cpVIRSvRAQfmNLFe0OdSDY500ZWDOY/s320/echo_on.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
However, one does notice that they seem to turn on periodically for no apparent reason. This is particularly true if they're near a radio or TV. People seem to say the A-word setting off the Amazon Echo at an alarming frequency. There are other optional wake words for Amazon's product. You can change it in settings to: Amazon, Echo or Computer. But I doubt any of these will solve the problem especially if you watch or listen to tech podcasts like I do. It will still turn on at odd times. The phrase, "Hey Google" is probably a lot less likely to be uttered by accident. In the case of the Echo, you can go into the settings and see when it was activated and what were the triggers and responses. You can also delete any or all entries from your history. But many are uncomfortable that information is being collected and stored. And law enforcement has at least once that we know of asked for it. So, if you have privacy concerns, you might want to think twice about bringing listening devices into your home. But do keep in mind that most phones, particularly newer Android phones are also always on listening devices. They're just not quite so open about it.<br />
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There are some open source solutions.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMP8N4G3hus-VKkgFZrfGgs87ai5oYeCgf_v_ilAfE0_6L-ZnneSpaBE5OlhcEGx50xvDWsH-yZ6lkYSr1ApzkjiM1ngeWJxnA56xJ32vGB7r1v__625bscge_gDBx4oAV8JuFL3csZ0K/s1600/mycroft1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="229" data-original-width="402" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMP8N4G3hus-VKkgFZrfGgs87ai5oYeCgf_v_ilAfE0_6L-ZnneSpaBE5OlhcEGx50xvDWsH-yZ6lkYSr1ApzkjiM1ngeWJxnA56xJ32vGB7r1v__625bscge_gDBx4oAV8JuFL3csZ0K/s320/mycroft1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mycroft Mark 1 pictured here. As it's open source, it's designed to be modified and customized by users. But it will also provide basic AI functions like answering questions, controlling IoT devices, playing music, etc. From reading some of the information on their website, I think that the key difference they offer is that your voice information is aggregated so that it cannot be tracked back directly to you. This is different from Amazon which connects your queries to your Amazon account as one of the services offered is shopping via your Echo device. Google also offers shopping capabilities. As their main business is advertising, so you can assume that Google Assistant information goes into their aggregate database about you and your interests, all the better to direct ads at you. Apple offers a more privacy oriented service for those who are willing to shell out premium dollars. </div>
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The allure of open source is its customization. For those who are so inclined, one can use the Mycroft software on a raspberry pi and enable a number of different devices and uses. The downside is that it might be a bit trickier for non-techies to set up and troubleshoot and it may not work with certain services. Digital assistants seem to be following the services silo model. Amazon products work best with Amazon services: Echo with Amazon Prime music and video, Fire TV, Google Home with Google Play and YouTube, Apple HomePod with Apple Music and iTunes. They all purport to work with major third party services like Spotify. But if you're tied to a particular service, it would be a good idea to make sure that it is supported by the device of your choice.</div>
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So, what does all of this mean for libraries? I think it will continue to be important for librarians to help educate the public about new products and how they can be used or possibly misused. It also seems very important to make people aware of the privacy implications of many of these devices and services. People should understand there's a trade off between convenience and giving up personal information and data so that they can make better informed decisions. </div>
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But there are wider implications as well. What about the increasing reliance on voice control? It is convenient but it does limit the kind of information that is routinely accessible. There is no and evaluation of sources and perhaps not even a citation. But I have heard Alexa say a piece of information came from Wikipedia. There's also very little opportunity to drill deeper or question further. Part of the assistance offered might be to help people set up their own custom news briefings so that they can get news of interest to them from reliable sources.</div>
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Once again, librarians also have to ask how they can get their services on some of these devices. One of the features people love is the availability of audiobooks. Unfortunately, as far as I know, this only applies to purchased audiobooks. Wouldn't it be great if the libraries' offerings were available as well? And how about ordering library materials via digital assistants? Shouldn't our ILS be searchable as well? It goes back to the notion of meeting our patrons where they are. If they are spending more and more time with digital assistants, shouldn't we be there as well?</div>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-36997141599538430892018-01-23T09:36:00.005-07:002018-01-23T09:36:41.690-07:00Wifi networking options for your libraryThere is a lot to know about networking in general and wireless networking in particular. So, I've put together a bibliography with articles and videos you can watch to learn more about the overall topic and/or a few specifics.<br />
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From CNET: <a href="https://www.cnet.com/how-to/home-networking-explained-part-1-heres-the-url-for-you/" target="_blank">Home networking: Everything you need to know</a><br />
From KnowHow on the TWIT Network:<br />
<a href="https://twit.tv/shows/know-how/episodes/291" target="_blank">Networking 101</a> The whole series is helpful, but the episode on<br />
<a href="https://twit.tv/shows/know-how/episodes/293" target="_blank">Router WiFi Setup</a> may be particularly helpful as that's what I referred to when setting up mine.<br />
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There are some interesting alternatives for setting up subnetworks for trusted, untrusted and perhaps totally untrustworthy devices using old routers. You might want to check out the Know How episode:<br />
<a href="https://twit.tv/shows/know-how/episodes/315" target="_blank">Networking 102 - Part 4: 3 Dumb Routers</a>Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-28367902535499194812017-10-20T16:27:00.000-06:002017-10-20T16:50:02.561-06:00KRACK safety precautions<br />
I've had a chance to track down more information about the KRACK attack and what can be done to protect against it.<br />
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It's what is known as a "Man in the Middle" attack. Someone has to be physically on your network in order to execute an attack on your router or devices. This makes it unlikely to be a problem for home users. And probably not a huge issue for a small library wifi network. But it's always better to patch devices when you can and take precautions.<br />
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A few points that can stand further clarification:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Windows and iOS devices are not particularly susceptible to this breach as WPA2 was never implemented entirely correctly in these operating systems. The protocol didn't work as planned. Neither does the hack. Regardless, both Microsoft and Apple have patches in the works.</li>
<li>Android <b>6.0 and higher </b>are most vulnerable to attack. Google is working on patches for Android. Whether or not your device gets an update is largely up to the manufacturer. Most current models will most likely get the patches eventually. Many old ones won't. But these devices have always been vulnerable to attacks. This is just another one to add to the list.</li>
</ul>
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Information of a highly confidential nature that requires a good measure of privacy protection should probably never be done over wifi. If you have such a network, the best advice is to turn off the wifi router and use ethernet cabling to make it a wired LAN. It's always a good practice to use ethernet for secure transmissions.<br />
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Other general good practices for wifi networks will help protect you in this instance as well:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when you're connected to a wifi network. This creates a kind of tunnel connecting your device to a server owned by the VPN company. That information is not accessible to anyone on the wifi network with you. When your request reaches the company's server, it then proceeds the rest of the way to its destination via the wired Internet. But don't rely on a free VPN. They may not to be reliable or trustworthy. Remember the adage, if the service is free, you're what's being sold. But even a paid VPN can slow you down and they don't work with every site.<br />We'll look at VPN options in a future post.</li>
<li>Https Everywhere: <a href="https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere">https://www.eff.org/https-everywhere</a><br />Electronic Freedom Foundation offers an extension for your browser that chooses the secure web protocol https over the unsecured general protocol http when more than one is available on a website. It's available for Chrome, Firefox and Opera browsers. The impetus behind this is reasonable. A secure website connection is better for many reasons including protection from attacks like KRACK. Financial and shopping sites, in particular, should be using this protocol and you should look for it. And, opting for it, when it's available, as this extension is supposed to do, is a good practice. Unfortunately, the extension can also break some sites if there is no https available. Or if the transfer from one protocol to another cannot be completed smoothly. Possibly worth a try, but don't be surprised if you hit some snags.</li>
<li>Cellular data - using a cell phone's data option is almost always more secure than public wifi. If you're concerned about security, you should probably consider increasing your data plan and reducing your use of public wi-fi. You can also use your cell phone as a modem and tether a laptop or tablet to it for use outside the home.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
Steve Gibson makes the point on Security Now that is CLIENTS not ACCESS POINTS that particularly need to be patched. This cartoon shows a reason why.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhec9jWRc_AMiKBPzNrHZDzi66F-4wqgnT19omg9gJ0ikuDxdTd7-7wGF8VqB83IT-ZxfgQbnaT1v5psVFegM0pb5FSwWyKv7kdQ-GJpekoslePNMifrii8bwUPQI_EblM9jNyoYjX2uRc7/s1600/Strip-Faille-WP2-650-finalenglish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="650" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhec9jWRc_AMiKBPzNrHZDzi66F-4wqgnT19omg9gJ0ikuDxdTd7-7wGF8VqB83IT-ZxfgQbnaT1v5psVFegM0pb5FSwWyKv7kdQ-GJpekoslePNMifrii8bwUPQI_EblM9jNyoYjX2uRc7/s400/Strip-Faille-WP2-650-finalenglish.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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That said, the other option to protect a network from a man in the middle attack is to update the router. Many router manufacturers are offering firmware updates. It's a good idea to check your make and model number on the manufacturer's website to see if there are updates available. Protecting the router becomes particularly important when you're running a network with a lot of IoT (Internet of Things) gadgets on it: doorbells, cameras, light switches, thermostats, etc. Cheaper gadgets, like cheap Android phones, will probably never get updates or patches. So they are best protected from the router side. If your wireless router is so old that you have no way to update it, it may be time to get a replacement. </div>
<br />
For more information on the KRACK Attack<br />
<ul>
<li>Steve Gibson gives a technical explanation and his recommendation in Security Now show notes. See the section toward the end on KRACKing WiFi<br /><a href="https://www.grc.com/sn/sn-633-notes.pdf">https://www.grc.com/sn/sn-633-notes.pdf</a></li>
<li>An analysis of the vulnerabilities and solutions from the discoverers of the flaw. Note particularly the Q & A portion<br /><a href="https://www.krackattacks.com/">https://www.krackattacks.com/</a></li>
<li>From ALA: The KRACK Attack and Libraries<br /><a href="https://chooseprivacyweek.org/the-krack-attacks-and-libraries/">https://chooseprivacyweek.org/the-krack-attacks-and-libraries/</a></li>
</ul>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-44707398559332320752017-09-11T16:39:00.000-06:002017-09-14T14:58:06.802-06:00How to protect yourself in a massive data breachHopefully, everyone is aware of the data breach at Equifax, one of the major credit bureaus. Reportedly, the data of 143 million people has been compromised, including social security numbers, names, addresses, phone numbers, credit card numbers, in short everything someone would need to commit identify theft.<br />
<br />
Equifax is offering a website where you can go and enter your name and part of your social security number to see if you are among those whose information has been compromised. Some hackers and tech enthusiasts claim that the viability of this system is questionable as it provides different results to the same information entered in subsequent queries. It also has provided positive results for fabricated data. It's probably safe to assume that your data has been compromised and proceed from that assumption.<br />
<br />
Equifax also provides a solution for that possibility: a year's free enrollment in their identity protection program: Trusted ID. Many are skeptical as to whether they want to trust the company whose potential gross negligence resulted in the problem in the first place.<br />
<br />
CNET offers <a href="https://www.cnet.com/how-to/a-guide-to-surviving-equifax-data-breach/?ftag=COS-05-10aaa0e&linkId=41985504" target="_blank">A guide to surviving the Equifax data breach (without Equifax's help)</a>. Not all of the information provided in this piece is uniformly agreed upon. For example, apparently enrolling in the Equifax Trusted ID program no longer requires you to opt out of a class action lawsuit. I think most of the advice about checking credit reports, freezing credit, setting fraud alerts and being vigilant during tax season is good advice.<br />
<br />
Update 9/12/2017 - Thanks to Diane Van Gorden and Alex Clark<br />
<a href="https://www.montanalawhelp.org/resource/how-to-protect-yourself-from-identity-theft-1?ref=kJm45" target="_blank">How to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft</a> - Montana Legal Services Association<br />
<br />
Update 9/14/2017 - Thanks to Steve Gibson on <a href="https://twit.tv/shows/security-now/episodes/628?autostart=false" target="_blank">Security Now</a><br /><a href="http://clark.com/personal-finance-credit/credit-freeze-and-thaw-guide/" target="_blank">Credit Freeze Guide: The best way to protect yourself against identity theft</a><br />
<br />
Here is more information and background on the data breach from some of my preferred sources:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.theregister.co.uk/2017/09/07/143m_american_equifax_customers_exposed/" target="_blank">Stand up who HASN'T been hit in the Equifax mega-hack – whoa, whoa, sit down everyone</a> - The Register</li>
<li><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/thomasbrewster/2017/09/08/equifax-data-breach-history/#39592058677c" target="_blank">A Brief History Of Equifax Security Fails</a> - Forbes</li>
<li><a href="https://krebsonsecurity.com/2017/09/equifax-breach-response-turns-dumpster-fire/" target="_blank">Equifax Breach Response Turns Dumpster Fire</a> - Krebs on Security</li>
</ul>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-42302376088572974362017-08-23T16:59:00.001-06:002017-08-23T16:59:27.040-06:00Unlimited data - can it replace your home broadband?The FCC has recently released an <a href="http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2017/db0808/FCC-17-109A1.pdf" target="_blank">inquiry on the current state of broadband in the U.S</a>. One of the questions they raise is whether or not it's necessary to have a wired broadband connection (fiber or cable) and to reach the previously set targets of 25 Mbps down and 3 Mbps up for home users. Or is a cellular connection enough?<br />
<br />
This report from 2016 shows that the U.S. lags well behind most of the rest of the world in cellular data download speeds at around 10 Mbps.<br />
<a href="http://bgr.com/2016/02/04/lte-speed-test-comparison-global-2016/" target="_blank">See how painfully slow 4G LTE is in the U.S. compared to the rest of the world</a><br />
That's also about what I've gotten on personal tests on Verizon in my area.<br />
<br />
But there are also questions about data caps and throttling. So, along come new unlimited data plans from the major cellular carriers.<br />
<a href="https://www.wired.com/2017/08/verizons-unlimited-data-plan-back-heres-compares-carriers/" target="_blank">VERIZON'S UNLIMITED DATA PLAN HAS CHANGED. HERE'S HOW IT COMPARES TO OTHER CARRIERS</a><br />
<br />
You can see there are limits on mobile tethering. So, the data is not unlimited if you want to use it with a tablet or PC. Plus there are limits on video quality and the data can be throttled even if you stay under a given level.<br />
<br />
This may be good news for some cellular users. But it doesn't look like an adequate replacement for high speed broadband, particularly in areas with spotty cell service.Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-83699994682651500912017-08-18T17:50:00.002-06:002017-08-18T17:50:21.361-06:00Passwords Guidelines ChangedFinally the guidelines about passwords that made me crazy - change every 90 days, include an upper case, lower case, number and other character - are being changed as we see in this NPR article.<br />
<a href="http://www.npr.org/sections/alltechconsidered/2017/08/14/543434808/forget-tough-passwords-new-guidelines-make-it-simple" target="_blank">Forget Tough Passwords: New Guidelines Make It Simple</a><br />
<br />
I'd often thought it couldn't be terribly secure if we had to write it down to remember it. Of course, I find the best solution is still a password manager.<br />
<br />
Here's some information and a review of some of the best rated ones from PC Magazine:<br />
<a href="https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2407168,00.asp" target="_blank">The Best Password Managers of 2017</a><br />
<br />
I use <a href="https://www.lastpass.com/" target="_blank">LastPass</a> and have generally been quite happy with it but it can be a challenge to use with mobile apps and sites.Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-29689618171602576292017-06-09T16:55:00.002-06:002017-06-09T17:01:10.641-06:00Internet of Things article from Pew ResearchThere was a fascinating if long article from Pew Research Center on Internet and Technology on:<br />
<a href="http://www.pewinternet.org/2017/06/06/the-internet-of-things-connectivity-binge-what-are-the-implications/" target="_blank">The Internet of Things Connectivity Binge: What Are the Implications?</a><br />
<br />
Well worth at least a scan to remind you of the potential risks in unbridled connectivity with no questions asked.Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-35415055450218948872016-10-19T17:03:00.000-06:002016-10-19T17:03:03.046-06:002016 Cell phone wrapupIs your contract up and you're starting to look at upgrade options? Or, are you finally ready to make the leap to a smart phone? If so, I'll give you a quick rundown on the latest models launched this fall.<br />
<br />
<b>Apple iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUxkWt5u4KMIemF63Axqw9aiSEPfFczZ775swp4PF7gOL-1dv6p5NGeOslE3sMmsoAOvmqwpUd4TB8-mQ1255Vf4-hfsvab_-ZLlZ5bwleC1HfdF2-KhkvSb84KnyPJbk6CyH_NiCcNZ3L/s1600/iphone7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUxkWt5u4KMIemF63Axqw9aiSEPfFczZ775swp4PF7gOL-1dv6p5NGeOslE3sMmsoAOvmqwpUd4TB8-mQ1255Vf4-hfsvab_-ZLlZ5bwleC1HfdF2-KhkvSb84KnyPJbk6CyH_NiCcNZ3L/s320/iphone7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It seems like all we've heard about the new iPhones is the lack of a headphone jack. That may be a deal breaker for some. But early reviews have talked about the amazing camera on the 7 Plus. It now features a second lens for telephoto. And there will soon be a software update which promises to offer new portrait possibilities. Other than that, the usual minor updates in hardware. This new model purports to be water resistant. The new color for this year is jet black - fingerprint magnet. iPhone continues to be a solid seller with reliable and predictable updates from Apple and very good resale value. And it offers seamless integration with other iOS and Mac OS products.<br />
<br />
iPhone 7 starts at $649<br />
iPhone 7 Plus starts at $769<br />
Available from all carriers, many retailers as well as <a href="http://www.apple.com/shop/buy-iphone/iphone-7" target="_blank">Apple Store</a><br />
Previous years' models available at discounts.<br />
<br />
Review from the Verge - <a href="http://www.theverge.com/a/apple-iphone-7-review-vs-iphone-7-plus">http://www.theverge.com/a/apple-iphone-7-review-vs-iphone-7-plus</a><br />
<br />
<b>Samsung</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cVCDvtWiLvMhYJCNi5bl1qwj92TeNU_h6SgWj38HoNw2FOWtw31lUL9x_igRk6WfHtefeBFt9_osXYtAXbFvVcxOin1g0FWzv8Rr9IwlUj_weMFuuk8m86oHp74PMFy7ZIAoKqPbcVhk/s1600/galaxys7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cVCDvtWiLvMhYJCNi5bl1qwj92TeNU_h6SgWj38HoNw2FOWtw31lUL9x_igRk6WfHtefeBFt9_osXYtAXbFvVcxOin1g0FWzv8Rr9IwlUj_weMFuuk8m86oHp74PMFy7ZIAoKqPbcVhk/s200/galaxys7.JPG" width="116" /></a></div>
Samsung is suffering greatly from the adverse publicity associated with its burning Galaxy Note 7. They've been recalled twice now. If you should happen to find one for sale, DON'T BUY IT! And if you have one in your possession that you're hard pressed to give up, get the fire resistant containers and/or take it back to your point of sale. But GET RID OF IT NOW!<br />
<br />
That said, Samsung still makes other great phones and devices. The Galaxy S7 has no battery issues and is a well regarded new model in the very popular Galaxy S series. It also comes as the Galaxy S7 Edge. The Edge is larger and has a curved display. Both are water resistant.<br />
<br />
Some of tech pundits recommend a Galaxy Note 5 for those with an earlier Note who are looking to upgrade and/or for those who are really attracted to a stylus.<br />
<br />
Galaxy S7 Edge starts at $729.99<br />
Galaxy S7 starts at $672.99<br />
Available from all carriers and most retailers.<br />
Previous years' models available at discounts.<br />
<br />
Galaxy S7 Edge Review - <a href="http://www.theverge.com/2016/3/8/11172968/samsung-galaxy-s7-edge-review">http://www.theverge.com/2016/3/8/11172968/samsung-galaxy-s7-edge-review</a><br />
<br />
<b>Google Pixel</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQx8Owcz8PDJZzFzBpLA_pyPVeMTw1pkq2JBE1w4eUVXXEZ4Rkf_hXS61IPDeToAKci0hfClAYQ6qf7tQcYNDaGbVoUV4CfXAmo_lODogUzckB061LFOs-rX3gSTQQ-bljoFiuLBtRYIdE/s1600/pixel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQx8Owcz8PDJZzFzBpLA_pyPVeMTw1pkq2JBE1w4eUVXXEZ4Rkf_hXS61IPDeToAKci0hfClAYQ6qf7tQcYNDaGbVoUV4CfXAmo_lODogUzckB061LFOs-rX3gSTQQ-bljoFiuLBtRYIdE/s200/pixel.JPG" width="115" /></a>Google recently unveiled its new Made by Google entry into the Android smartphone market: the Google Pixel and Pixel XL. These are designed by Google from the ground up but manufactured by HTC. This is a departure from the Nexus phones where Google contracted with various manufacturers to design a phone for Google.<br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, this flagship phone from Google makes excellent use of all Google services from the newly renamed if not reworked Google Assistant to Google Play Music to Google Drive for storage... What's different this time is that it's also top of the line hardware with an excellent camera. The Pixel is also designed to work with Google's new VR system the Daydream View. This is due to release in November. Those who preorder the Pixel will get a free Daydream View unit. Pixel owners are also offered the option of signing up with Google Fi service for wireless access. This is no doubt a more attractive option in some areas. In Billings, you'd be relegated to 2G data.<br />
<br />
Pixel starts at $649<br />
Pixel XL starts at $769<br />
The only carrier offering it for sale is Verizon. But unlocked version will work on other carriers and is available from Best Buy and <a href="https://store.google.com/product/pixel_phone" target="_blank">Google Play Store</a><br />
<br />
CNET Google Pixel Review - <a href="https://www.cnet.com/products/google-pixel-phone-review/">https://www.cnet.com/products/google-pixel-phone-review/</a><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<h4>
<b>Mid-Range Phones</b></h4>
I think the CNET review pretty much sums it up. Samsung Galaxy S7 and Edge continue to be the primary non-iPhone alternatives at the top of the market. But Google Pixel is a fine choice for anyone who is wary of Samsung and/or prefers the pure Google Android experience. But there are a number of well rated Android cell phones including a few who are new to the US market.<br />
<br />
<b>Motorola</b><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKMNH-ROlHJkY5hPjCRcM3fHp4baNtFxg1edK9TQZRFcWgPGEW2XkPfnpSdmhYne21yV1T0CWuK33uuXp_HvJz_EMnsZe-qA_d8_DeeQ5UXueICxrQmaMmQ3qYARoqYGzuMbr48ga1WqQ/s1600/motozplay.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKMNH-ROlHJkY5hPjCRcM3fHp4baNtFxg1edK9TQZRFcWgPGEW2XkPfnpSdmhYne21yV1T0CWuK33uuXp_HvJz_EMnsZe-qA_d8_DeeQ5UXueICxrQmaMmQ3qYARoqYGzuMbr48ga1WqQ/s200/motozplay.JPG" width="156" /></a></div>
Moto Z series<br />
I don't pretend to know enough about the numerous models of various Android handset manufacturers to be able to recommend one over another. I do know that these are phones which get overwhelmingly positive reviews. The Moto Z Play is the least expensive model. The top of the line is the Moto Z Force and is apparently available only from Verizon. All models in the Moto Z series are modular, meaning you can buy accessories called Moto Mods to change different aspects of the phone. You can buy a zoom lens, speaker, projector, power pack batteries with or without wireless charging as well as customizable backs. Nice idea but I don't know enough about it to know whether or not this is really a useful feature or more of a gimmick.<br />
<br />
CNET Moto Z Play review with comparisons to other models in the series<br />
<a href="https://www.cnet.com/products/motorola-moto-z-play/review/">https://www.cnet.com/products/motorola-moto-z-play/review/</a><br />
<br />
Moto G series<br />
There's also the Motorola budget series. Reviews say that these reasonable phones. The Moto G4 sells for $149.99<br />
<br />
Motorola phones are available from carriers and retailers. The exception are the Droid versions of the Moto Z models that are exclusive to Verizon.<br />
CNET Moto G4 review - <a href="https://www.cnet.com/products/motorola-moto-g4/">https://www.cnet.com/products/motorola-moto-g4/</a><br />
<br />
<b>OnePlus 3</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrz0r8xXeIAUCBOEdWpmrClMzOBo48XAbPIt_el6Be9EY7zrbbZ8l5Ri_dS-vykG41tfhPuhxr1orvlo0jKpYS08vmcf08F2ZDMrKQmB1JqV-12fE5chfhWT6FV368Mll0Y_Bm81aj8uxI/s1600/oneplus3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrz0r8xXeIAUCBOEdWpmrClMzOBo48XAbPIt_el6Be9EY7zrbbZ8l5Ri_dS-vykG41tfhPuhxr1orvlo0jKpYS08vmcf08F2ZDMrKQmB1JqV-12fE5chfhWT6FV368Mll0Y_Bm81aj8uxI/s200/oneplus3.JPG" width="175" /></a><b><br /></b>
This is the third generation of a smart phone that has been well reviewed and regarded by tech enthusiasts. Earlier versions were invitation only. This the first one that seems widely available. It has a lot of the features of higher end smart phones at a mid range price. OnePlus has their own customized version of Android, Oxygen OS but I haven't heard any complaints about it.<br />
<br />
Sells for $399 from the OnePlus Store - <a href="https://oneplus.net/3">https://oneplus.net/3</a><br />
International version available from Amazon at higher price. I'd go with manufacturer.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Huawei</b><br />
<br />
Huawei is the Chinese cell phone company that manufactured the last Google Nexus phone - the Nexus 6P. They have only recently begun marketing their phones directly to US consumers. The model currently available in the US is the Honor 8. This phone has a lot of high end features including dual camera.<br />
<br />
Huawei Honor 8 is available from major retailers starting at around $390<br />
CNET Huawei Honor 8 Review - <a href="https://www.cnet.com/products/huawei-honor-8/review/">https://www.cnet.com/products/huawei-honor-8/review/</a><br />
<br />
There are numerous other phones by other manufactures worth consideration. As always the array is mind numbing as well. I can say that Windows Phone is pretty much dead as is Blackberry. Too bad for those of us who were rooting for other OS alternatives, but at least the choice is down to iOS vs. Android.<br />
<br />
For a rundown and comparison of all the major phones this year thus far:<br />
<ul>
<li>CNET Best Phones of 2016 - <a href="https://www.cnet.com/topics/phones/best-phones/">https://www.cnet.com/topics/phones/best-phones/</a></li>
<li>PC Mag Best Phones of 2016 (Sept) - <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2367064,00.asp">http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2367064,00.asp</a></li>
<li>TechRadar Best phone 2016: the 10 top smartphones we've tested <a href="http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/20-best-mobile-phones-in-the-world-today-645440">http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/20-best-mobile-phones-in-the-world-today-645440</a></li>
</ul>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-44249167072990530582016-02-29T08:24:00.001-07:002016-02-29T11:37:51.016-07:00Biting the Apple<div>
A couple of my friends were talking last evening about iPhones. I heard one ask another why I hadn't talked her into an iPhone and away from a Samsung Galaxy 3, which, btw, I had recommended several years ago. I didn't hear the response. But it did get me thinking about Apple, the appeal of its products and the current controversy with the FBI.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think Apple products hold a special appeal to people who view technology as a tool that can be used to enhance creativity. That's the market they're appealing to with many of their ads - artists, graphic artists, designers, photographers, filmmakers, musicians, writers, etc. If technology is viewed as an important tool in the creative process, you want it to work consistently. You want it to be maintained and improved on a predictable and on-going basis so that it will continue to enhance rather than distract or detract from your creative process. You don't want to have to spend valuable time worrying about technology or futzing with it. You're probably willing to pay a little more, and customer service like Apple Care and the Genius Bar is invaluable ensuring it all continues to work. At heart, it's a bit of a niche market. But I wonder. It's a comfortable world and easy to get used to. Technology just works. It took me a long time to appreciate that.</div>
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The iPhone has confused matters a bit. It's probably the logical choice for someone new to the smartphone market who knows little or nothing and doesn't want to spend a lot of time learning. IPhone is simple and pretty foolproof. But it does tend to be more expensive than its Android counterparts and not as enthusiastically marketed by cellular providers. However, I'd argue, as most don't really do much with their smartphones other than make calls, send and receive texts, take an occasional photo and perhaps check a few apps, it doesn't really make much difference which OS they use. Nor is the issue of privacy terribly important to the average person. They tend to see it in terms of location and call information. I've had several tell me you give that up when you get a smartphone anyway. You give some up when you get and use any cell phone. But the crucial question remains, does it have to be an all or nothing proposition? Shouldn't you be able to choose to keep some information secure and private without having to become a security expert?</div>
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To the creative person who uses Apple products including iPhones, privacy and security are about protecting the fruits of their imagination. Their iPhones are likely to be filled with photos, videos, notes: beginnings and continuations of ideas. Who knows what snippets might be misconstrued as having some nefarious intent when taken out of context? Therefore one can appreciate the fact that Apple, the company that provides the tools to aid the creative process, is also showing a dedication to respecting and protecting the content that is produced and stored on those iPhones. This sign of mutual respect will no doubt enhance brand loyalty in the future.<br />
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What do you think about Apple's decision to fight the FBI in the courts? Does privacy and security of your mobile devices matter to you? Do you take extra steps to encrypt or in other ways secure your device and/or data?</div>
Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-90603980384076806962016-02-09T13:44:00.001-07:002016-02-09T15:06:50.935-07:00Windows 10 - You Will Be AssimilatedRan across this potentially alarming bit of news last week.<br />
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<a href="http://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-starts-pushing-windows-10-as-a-recommended-update/" target="_blank">Microsoft starts pushing Windows 10 as a 'recommended' update: Microsoft is stepping up its Windows 10 push by making the OS a 'recommended' -- though not required -- update for Windows 7 and 8.1 users, beginning February 1. Mary Jo Foley</a><br />
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This could be good news if you've been planning to upgrade to Windows 10 and just haven't gotten around to it. But, for many of us, this is not in our plans and an upgrade that's snuck in could have disastrous consequences. For example, if you have older computers running older software. Some of this software may not be compatible with Windows 10. And if you have older peripherals like scanners or printers, they may not have Windows 10 drivers.<br />
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So, you may want to choose not to upgrade older computers at all. This makes a lot of sense particularly if you're planning on getting new computers in the next year or so and would like to keep the older ones working in the meantime. Or you may just want to upgrade on your own time schedule instead of Microsoft's. At any rate, it would probably be useful to circumvent their automatic upgrade until you're ready.<br />
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So here are some directions and screen shots for how to change your update settings in Windows 7.<br />
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From the Start Menu, choose Windows Update.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV5Zemeqcpp3r-Bf1OZ6aRD-N3EnxlD1gyf2sHKqdarXAkCemtnbRzRO4lNOvYyuiplNPVP-ZFkmMDyxchrB8MI_zDia5G1ek6sPB48GizJkVreqn5mYhFnryAsfss-npr6qQQK-HXtzOl/s1600/startbar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="start menu windows update" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV5Zemeqcpp3r-Bf1OZ6aRD-N3EnxlD1gyf2sHKqdarXAkCemtnbRzRO4lNOvYyuiplNPVP-ZFkmMDyxchrB8MI_zDia5G1ek6sPB48GizJkVreqn5mYhFnryAsfss-npr6qQQK-HXtzOl/s400/startbar.jpg" title="start menu" width="263" /></a></div>
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Click on Change Settings from the left hand navigation bar<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEnf_CuuNa0hgUi_ed01EdV-GocnHd0gnT82mdhfOQwaar6X560XVWffrhvVYP_GKsYXTX90xfG2kHc9byOpnzCzKQZbt0UHx1lU1fimIOCNV7sq7Aaayl9LcZ1Mnd3RLG_gu5ktNWMFI/s1600/changesettings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="windows update change settings" border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtEnf_CuuNa0hgUi_ed01EdV-GocnHd0gnT82mdhfOQwaar6X560XVWffrhvVYP_GKsYXTX90xfG2kHc9byOpnzCzKQZbt0UHx1lU1fimIOCNV7sq7Aaayl9LcZ1Mnd3RLG_gu5ktNWMFI/s400/changesettings.jpg" title="windows update" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnUfAby6ZYaVnD6rBhQ62PoPLur5c9VdiqggCJC45aiPkWv3A7HTpnbNZmR_aiwrqyXtcsb28-A2xUWWGoOQASa09GrCu612EEojBS7_WgXtIjqpDiSffs7Bk9seju7To1nuT05LkSZLR/s1600/recommendedupdates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnUfAby6ZYaVnD6rBhQ62PoPLur5c9VdiqggCJC45aiPkWv3A7HTpnbNZmR_aiwrqyXtcsb28-A2xUWWGoOQASa09GrCu612EEojBS7_WgXtIjqpDiSffs7Bk9seju7To1nuT05LkSZLR/s400/recommendedupdates.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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You have a couple of choices from this screen. If you have Windows Update set to Install Updates Automatically but you don't want the Windows 10 recommended update automatically installed, you can just uncheck the box that sayse Give me recommended updates the same way I receive important updates.<br />
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Or you can change how you receive all updates to download but choose whether to install or even to check for updates but decide whether to download and install.<br />
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But if you change your automatic updating procedures, do make sure you download and install Windows updates on a regular basis as there are often important security updates included.<br />
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Finally, if you DO decide to go ahead and upgrade your Windows 7 and/or Windows 8 or 8.1 computers to Windows 10, be sure to backup your hard drives first. Windows does offer a rollback. If within a month, you decided that Windows 10 is not for you, you can go back to your previous operating system. Microsoft is reportedly keeping a backup of your system for that month. Go to Settings > Update & security > Recovery. But, it's always good to have your own backup, just in case.Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-57220812987469730972016-01-21T14:37:00.000-07:002016-01-21T14:46:02.822-07:00Virtual Reality to Enhance EmpathyWhile most of the talk about VR (Virtual Reality) seems to center around gaming, there are some interesting new uses emerging. VR for those unfamiliar with the term generally involves a headset, computer, headphones and potentially other equipment and is designed to put the user in an immersive environment. So, you can easily see how this would be appealing in video games. As I'm not an ardent gamer, up until recently, I wasn't very interested.<br />
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Late last year, the New York Times started experimenting with VR content. They sent out Google cardboard to subscribers. Google cardboard is definitely low end VR but you can put your smart phone in it, attach headphones and start to get a feel for what it's all about. In the NYTimes' case, they provided samples where you could feel like you were part of one of their stories. The first one I tried was a candle light vigil in Paris for victims of the bombing. You could look all around at participants in the vigil and hear them. It does make you feel like you're in the middle of the story. It's a different experience than just reading about it and more emotionally involving than just looking at photos. Here's a TED Talk exploring the possibilities of Virtual Reality along this line:<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://embed-ssl.ted.com/talks/chris_milk_how_virtual_reality_can_create_the_ultimate_empathy_machine.html" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="560"></iframe><br />
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After January 2016 CES (used to stand for Consumer Electronic Show), I started hearing about other uses of VR including this one as reported by the Wall Street Journal: <a href="http://www.wsj.com/articles/getting-old-this-high-tech-suit-simulates-aging-1452189525" target="_blank">Getting Old? This High-Tech Suit Simulates Aging</a>. Here is VR being used to give the wearer the experience of the more limited vision and movement that is common among older individuals. Might this make a younger person more empathetic toward his/her parents or grandparents?<br />
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<a href="https://vhil.stanford.edu/" target="_blank">Stanford's Virtual Human Interaction Lab</a> is doing all kinds of fascinating research. If you'd like an introduction to VR as well as some information on VHIL's work, here's a piece from a 2013 PBS NewsHour report:<br />
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"When I think about virtual reality, I think virtual reality is like uranium: It's this really powerful thing. It can heat homes and it can destroy nations. And it's all about how we use it." Jeremy Bailenson<br />
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So, what does all this mean for librarians and educators? As I said in the <a href="http://mtbibliotechie.blogspot.com/2015/12/holiday-2015-gadget-guide.html" target="_blank">Holiday 2015 Gadget Guide</a>, it's still early days for VR. Oculus Rift is available for preorder now at $599 and is expected to ship by July 2016. The price does not include the Rift ready PC required to run it. There is a test you can run on your PC to see if it will work. Not surprisingly, my work HP laptop does not have the graphics card, memory or processing power required to run Oculus Rift. Expect to need a newer high end PC. So, Oculus Rift is probably more for enthusiastic gamers and early adopters. But you should probably start getting familiar with VR and some of its possibilities, particularly in learning environments. You can certainly check out Google cardboard. It's available in various guises and sometimes via free promotions. And we should all start thinking about how to harness the energy of this new technology for positive goals.Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8693591676201500879.post-90737943555349002022015-12-14T15:49:00.001-07:002015-12-14T15:49:11.862-07:00Fitness trackers are no good if you don't use themI was listening to <a href="https://twit.tv/shows/tech-news-today/episodes/1406?autostart=false" target="_blank">Tech News Today from December 11, 2015</a>. One of the topics they covered was fitness tech. As I had just included some of those in my recent blog post, I was interested to hear what they had to say. The major point I came away with was, they're not going to do any good, if you don't use them. So, I think it's worth spending a few minutes looking at what might motivate you or a potential fitness tracker as gift recipient to actually use any given tech device to set and meet exercise/fitness goals. This seems important as Americans as a whole seem to be becoming more sedentary and more prone to subsequent health issues. How do we get and stay moving?<br />
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So, here are some potential questions to ask:<br />
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What would it take for you to add a fitness tracker or other device to your life on a daily basis?<br />
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<li>Comfort? Some of the guests on Tech News Today complained about the first version of the Microsoft Band feeling like a shackle. That's probably not going to be something you're going to want to wear on a regular basis.</li>
<li>Where do you want to wear it? Clip on? Wrist band? Clip ons can be difficult for women who wear a lot of dresses. Where do you clip it? If you clip it on the waist band of jeans, it can fall off. But some people don't like things on their wrists or they work at jobs where a wrist band could get in the way.</li>
<li>If you are considering a wrist band, does it work with what you're wearing? That's a nice thing about smart watches with interchangeable watch bands or fitness trackers that can fit into different bands.</li>
<li>What kind of information do you want from the device? Just an idea of progress toward your goal? Do you want additional functionality? Heart rate? Time? Notifications? The more info you want or need, the more you're headed into smart watch functionality. Basics can be handled by fitness trackers.</li>
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What motivates you?</div>
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<li>Do you set your own goals and stick to them? Are you self motivated?</li>
<li>Do you like awards or celebrations for meeting your goals? One of the things I really liked about Nike Fuel Band was the multi colored lights that would dance across the black band when I reached my goal. I also liked the little guy on the app who would cheer me. Fitness Tracker on Apple Watch gives you awards for meeting your weekly goals. These little motivators are enough to get me to go a little bit further than I would otherwise.</li>
<li>Do you do better with social motivation? Fitbit has a lot of users so it's generally pretty easy to put together a group where you can track each other's progress. That can be useful whether you're competitive by nature or just like to know there are others working out too.</li>
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Do you use a fitness tracker? If so, which one(s)? What do you like and/or dislike? Any thoughts or recommendations for someone looking to get started or try something different?</div>
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Suzannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07068079582592180728noreply@blogger.com0